Elaine M. Harman

Elaine McKay Harman, B.A. ’68, passed away March 21 after a long and courageous battle with dementia at 79 years old. Harman was born Sept. 28, 1946, in Tyler, TX, to Glee McCrary McKay, B.A. ’37, and Connally McKay, J.D. ’37.

Harman attended Baylor, where she majored in elementary education. During the summer of 1966, she traveled to Europe on a Baylor program. On that trip, she met a young man named Walker Green Harman, B.B.A. ’69. Their courtship began abroad and grew quickly into a deep and lasting love. By the end of the trip, their relationship had taken root, marked by a memorable first kiss in the rain in Italy. They married June 22, 1968, in Tyler, TX, beginning a partnership that would span 57 years.

After graduating from Baylor, Harman began her career in education, teaching in Waco while Walker completed his studies. Her faith in Jesus Christ was the foundation of her life. Harman was a devoted student of the Bible and a gifted teacher. Over decades, she studied scripture faithfully, taught Bible studies through various ministries, and spent years discipling others. She always approached her study with both depth and humility. Harman also was a committed woman of prayer. Each morning, she rose early to spend time in scripture and prayer before the day began. When she told someone she would pray for them, she meant it. Her prayer life was steady, quiet and powerful. She saw every act of service as an opportunity to love others well and to reflect the grace she had received. Throughout her life, Harman also invested in her church and community. At Park Cities Baptist Church, she served in numerous roles, including youth leadership, Bible study teaching and encouragement for those facing grief or illness.