Harlene Gaston Anderson passed away January 1, 2025, at the age of 98 after a very long and beautiful life devoted to God, her family, and her community.

She was born November 17, 1926, in Waxahachie, Texas, to William Otis Gaston and Pearlie Mae Gaston. After graduating from North Texas State University (UNT), she married her high school sweetheart, Miles E. Anderson. Their enduring marriage of 72 years exemplified love and devotion. In retirement they traveled the world and delighted in summers spent in their Colorado mountain cabin. Having trained as a biologist, Harlene had a deep appreciation for the natural world, maintaining a sense of wonder and kinship throughout her life. Like many of her generation, Harlene and Miles both had that remarkable combination of decency, honesty, compassion, endurance, frugality and generosity born of the struggles of the Great Depression and the second World War.

Devoted to her family and friends, she was a constant source of guidance, support and unconditional love. As a woman of deep faith, she dedicated herself to serving her community. Over the years she shared her time and talents with a number of Denton charities and service organizations in volunteer and leadership roles. She was a charter member and served a term as President of the Denton Benefit League, a member of Denton Women's Interracial Fellowship, and a longtime member and past President of Ariel Club.  Of special meaning to her was her volunteer work with the Denton City County Day School and the Denton Christian Preschool. Harlene and Miles were active members of First United Methodist Church of Denton.

Harlene was preceded in death by husband Miles, daughter and son-in-law Gail and Jerry Needleman, brother and sister-in-law Hoyt and Margaret Gaston, grandson Nathan Richardson and great-grandson Isaiah Richardson. She leaves a treasured legacy through son David Anderson and his wife Bunny Hodges, daughter Barbara Anderson, 5 grandchildren, 7 great-grandchildren and a host of extended family and friends.

If you would like to celebrate the life of Harlene with a donation, in lieu of flowers you may give to Denton Christian Preschool, First United Methodist Church of Denton-"First Meal", plant a tree, or any charity of your choice.

In remembrance there will be a memorial service in Cole Chapel at First United Methodist Church of Denton at 2:00 P.M. on Saturday, February 8, 2025, to honor Harlene's dedication to her family and her community and her enduring impact in our lives and hearts.