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Pamela Marie
Harwell
Aug 30, 1960 — Mar 24, 2026
Name: Pamela Marie Harwell
Date of birth: 8/30/1960 Date of death: 3/24/2026
City and State of birth: Santa Monica, California
Father's Name: Russell Harwell Mother's Name and Maiden Name: Berniece Harwell (Talley)
Graduated from Cajon High School, San Bernardino, CA 1978, Graduated from Chaffey College, Rancho Cucamonga, CA 1981, Worked as a hospice nurse's assistant at Waterman Convalescent Hospital in San Bernardino, CA 1980-1984, Worked as a carrier and supervisor for the post office in Riverside, California, Retired in 2012 because of a disability while working for the post office. After retiring, she moved to Flower Mound, Texas to help take care of her dad and be with her son.
Predeceased by: Her parents, Russell and Berniece Harwell, and brothers Steven and Jeffrey Harwell.
Survivors: Her son, Joshua Harwell from Aubrey, Texas, Erik Diefendorf (although he wasn't her true flesh and blood, Erik became another son to her. Pam knew him for 17 years and would affectionately refer to him as "her other son" and loved him as her own.), her brother Brad Harwell and his wife Renee, from Forney, TX, her sister Karen James and her husband Johnny from Oklahoma, her two dogs: Malcolm and Abby, several nieces, nephews, grand nieces and nephews, cousins, and other family members in addition to her many, many friends
Pam exemplified an unwavering faith in God and generous compassion for others. More than anything else, she had a profound, unconditional and enduring love for her son Josh. They spent a lot of time together and exemplified a wonderful mother and son relationship. Josh's friends and coworkers knew about Pam. Pam's friends would frequently hear her pride as she talked about Josh. Nieces and nephews cherished the precious gifts that "Auntie Pam" would bring. At any time, when folks would visit her, they would notice a stack of presents ready to send or deliver.
No matter the day or season, there was always a stack of gifts ready to go. Pam was a prayer warrior, often praying for two or three hours each day, as she lifted up each name on her long list. Unlike others who might say that they'll pray for someone, she added the name and concern on her phone immediately. Remarkably, she was also consistent with keeping anyone involved updated about answers to those prayers.
While Pam lived in Lewisville, Texas, she was active in two nearby Catholic parishes: St. Philip the Apostle Catholic Church in Flower Mound and St. Ann Catholic parish in Coppell. Occasionally, she would attend mass at either parish with her son, Josh, or neighbors. Mobility issues interfered with Pam's ability to attend Sunday masses. Her Sunday schedule always included watching mass online.
When she learned about the apostolate at Seven Sisters, at St. Ann's, she asked to join. This small group of women are committed to offer one weekly holy hour of prayer for the parish priest. Pam's day was Monday. Each week, she would pray for Fr. Allen-Michael Muench's intentions.
Recently, Pam joined a small group from St. Ann's for weekly bible study and prayer. Remarkably, both parishes are involved in acknowledging her faithful life. On Tuesday evening, after discovering that Pam had passed away, Fr. Allen-Michael arrived and led family and friends in last rites for Pam.
A celebration of life memorial mass and reception will be held at St. Philip's on May 2, 2026 at noon. In addition, an additional mass will be offered for the repose of her soul at St. Philip's on July 26, 2026 at 7 a.m.
Pam's apartment complex held weekly communion services, led by lay people from St. Philip's. Pam made this service and community a priority. Periodically, Monsignor Tawiah, the parochial vicar from St. Philip's, would attend and offer the sacrament of reconciliation. Pam treasured each opportunity. Friends from each parish are scheduling to gather for prayer for the repose of her soul. Pam's neighbors are also planning to gather to share happy memories of her and her two devoted dogs, Abbey and Malcolm.
Pam was well known for her daily walks with her dogs. Each morning and afternoon, she could be seen driving her scooter with Abbey and Malcolm at the lead. Her four legged little angels loved greeting neighbors and their pets.
Pam was well known for her generosity, especially with her candy bowl. Outside her front door, neighbors would always find a full bowl of chips and candy. Sometimes, they would even stick their face in her ring camera and thank her. She was so happy knowing that she had a small part in brightening her neighbors' day.
Pam will be missed dearly. Ironically, in the past few years, she often questioned if she was making an impact with anyone. Without a doubt, she most definitely did.
Saturday
St. Philip The Apostle Catholic Church
Starts at 12:00 pm
Sunday
St. Philip The Apostle Catholic Church
Starts at 7:00 am
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