Johelen Hartley

Johelen Louis Hartley, 94, of Seffner, Florida passed away on Saturday, February 28, 2026 of natural circumstances. Johelen was born on October 25, 1931 in Apalachicola, Florida. Daughter to Eva Clarice (Bainey) & George Louis. She was married to G. Cecil Hartley in 1949. They were parents to four children, ten grandchildren, eight great grandchildren and three great-great grandchildren.

After their marriage in Apalachicola, Florida, Johelen & Cecil moved to Tampa, Florida and eventually settled in Seffner, Florida. There they raised their family as the dedicated parents that they were. Together they built a life filled with laughter, faith, and countless memories. Johelen was the proud and devoted mother of four wonderful children—Mark, Michael, Marshall, and Melanie—each of whom she adored beyond measure. Her greatest delight was her many precious grandchildren, whom she lovingly called her “sweetheart darlins.” She never missed a chance to spoil them, cheer them on, or wrap them in one of her warm hugs.

Johelen was the heartbeat of every gathering. She believed family time wasn’t just important—it was something to celebrate. From lively family get-togethers filled with stories and laughter, to beach trips where toes stayed sandy and hearts felt light, she created moments that turned into cherished memories. She loved to travel, explore, and make an adventure out of even the simplest day. And she often said, with a smile, that all the world’s problems could be solved on a porch swing at the beach—where the breeze was gentle, conversations were honest, and laughter came easy.

Her faith was the cornerstone of her life. Baptized as one of Jehovah's Witnesses on June 6, 1950. Johelen was deeply devoted to her beliefs and found great joy in worship and fellowship. She loved attending services at the Kingdom Hall, where she felt encouraged, uplifted, and surrounded by dear friends. Her faith in Jehovah gave her strength, hope, and a peaceful confidence that carried her through every season of life.

Johelen will be remembered for her playful spirit, her deep love for her family, her unwavering faith, and the way she made everyone feel special. Her laughter, her sweet nicknames, and her gift for turning ordinary days into treasured memories will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.

Johelen was preceded in death by her husband G. Cecil Hartley and her son Michael Hartley.

Visitation will be held at Hillsboro Memorial Funeral Home, 2323 West Brandon Blvd, Brandon, FL 33511, on March 10, 2026, from 11:00 am to 12:00 pm. The Funeral Service will take place at Hillsboro Memorial Funeral Home, 2323 West Brandon Blvd, Brandon, FL 33511, on March 10, 2026, at 12:00 pm.

A Committal Service will be held at Hillsboro Memorial Gardens, 2323 West Brandon Blvd, Brandon, FL 33511, on March 10, 2026, at 1:00 pm.

Johelen’s family would like to greatly thank all of her caregivers and staff at Compass Rose of Brandon and Lifepath Hospice for their dedication & care.