Jana Lynn Hurt Harston

March 10, 2026

 Jana Lynn Hurt Harston, born May 29, 1955, a native of Scottsville, KY, died of pancreatic cancer in Charlotte, NC, on March 10, 2026.

Jana lived a full life, delighting in everyday moments with a joyful heart and cheerful optimism. Born and raised in Allen County, Jana treasured her old Kentucky home and regularly visited family with Phil, her high school sweetheart. This spring marked 54 years together. Jana loved traveling the world and spending time in High Meadows with the most beautiful porch view of the North Carolina mountains. Jana enjoyed watching all types of sports and loved cheering for her teams, both as her school's cheerleader growing up and later as a loyal Panthers and Hornets fan.

Jana cherished being Mom to Drew, Nana to her grandsons, and Aunt Jana to many. She was a serious game player, whether in cards, golf, or mahjong. She was an active member of Charlotte's Garden Club and Providence Baptist Church for many years, where she served as the pianist for children's choirs and as a 5th-grade Sunday School teacher. Jana often sent heartfelt handwritten notes, and she will always be remembered for her family's favorite beef tenderloin dinner and chocolate ganache cake.

She was predeceased by her parents, Billie Wayne Hurt and Jeanne Albright Hurt, and a brother, Todd Hurt. She is survived by her husband of 47 years, Dr. Phillip Reed Harston; son, Dr. Drew Harston, and his wife, Rev. Dr. Carol Harston; grandsons, James, Collier, and Walter Harston; and sister, Julie Hurt.

A visitation will be held at Providence Baptist Church on Saturday, March 14, 2026 at 1:00 p.m., with a funeral service at 2:00 p.m., and a reception to follow at their home. Memorial gifts may be made to Providence Baptist Church.

Arrangements are in the care of Kenneth W. Poe Funeral Home & Cremation Service, 1321 Berkeley Ave., Charlotte, NC 28204; (704) 641-7606. Online condolences may be shared at www.kennethpoeservices.com.

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  • Dot Hurley

    We are heartbroken over this loss… an angel among us here on earth and now in complete joy and peace among the stars. Prayers of comfort and love to all the family.

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  • Darlene Martin

    Jana knew how to do so many things well but one of her greatest gifts was how to be a friend. She made life better with her laughter and smile and ability to make you feel special. I was a recipient of several of her hand written notes and they always seemed to arrive at the most needed time. I’m sad and broken hearted that she is no longer with us. Jana had great faith and my prayers are for Phil and family to be comforted in knowing they will see her again. My family and I love all the Harstons dearly and our shared memories continue to grow sweeter

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  • Ginny Mountcastle

    What a loss for so many….Jana was a true lady. Vernon and Ginny

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  • Hale Trotter

    My condolences to Phil and the family

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  • Tammy Pelphrey

    Knowing Jana from High Meadows for over 30 plus years, she was the nicest person on the whole mountain. She would be the first one to run over and greet you with the biggest hug you ever had. She will be missed more than words can express. My prayers are with Phil and all her precious family

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  • Demmink Yon

    Jana was the light of our community. Her radiant smile and welcoming disposition will be sorely missed and will leave a void in the lives of her family and those of her friends. We can all take solace in the knowledge that she is now wrapped in the arms of our Lord.

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  • Tom Shelburne

    We mourn the death of our friend.She reminded me of my mother -smart,spunky,pretty.and straight forward.Phil’s love and excellent care enhanced her years after diagnosis.

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  • Lindsey Trent and Family

    Aunt Jana was loved by our whole family, and we are heartbroken that she is no longer with us. She had such a positive spirit and a mile-wide smile that could light up any room. We will always remember the joy she brought to our family, especially during our yearly vacations in the mountains. Those memories together mean so much to us. Aunt Jana was truly a special person, and she will be deeply missed. We take comfort in knowing that we will see her again someday in heaven.

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  • Bill Reading

    Catherine and I were so sorry to hear that we have all lost Jana. Such a lovely woman. She will be missed and fondly remembered. Sending many prayers to Phil and family during this time of mourning and grief.

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  • Myrna Walker

    Jana was beautiful, wonderful and inspiring. Her smile would light up a room and her positivity was infectious. I will always cherish her friendship. My deepest sympathy to Phil and the family.

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