

Charlene Sue (Scott) Harter, 84, of Fort Wayne, IN, passed away on March 19, 2026. She was born in Van Wert, OH on February 25, 1942, a daughter of the late Wilber and Ella Mae Scott. Charlene lived a life marked by steady devotion to family, faithful presence, and a love of music that brought joy to those around her.
Charlene attended Northside High School in Fort Wayne prior to marrying Michael T. Harter, who preceded her in death in 1992. For 39 years, Charlene worked as a cashier, including more than 30 years at Roger’s before it became Scott’s Supervalue. Her long service reflected a dependable and hardworking spirit, and she was known for the familiar kindness she offered day after day.
A devoted music lover and a beautiful singer, Charlene found comfort and community through song. She never missed watching The Gaithers on Sunday morning, and she loved karaoke, sharing many evenings and friendships with those she sang alongside at the Legion. Her daughters remember her fondly for singing “Boot Scootin’ Boogie” and “America the Beautiful,” and for humming Christian songs in her final days—small moments that spoke to the faith and warmth that shaped her life.
Charlene is survived by her loving daughters, Kim Kelley, Laurie Johnson, and Pam Jones; many adoring grandchildren; great-grandchildren; great-great-grandchildren; and her siblings, Peg (Tom) Horner, Alice (Dave) Nicolet, Barb Barrand, and Gary (Emily) Scott.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Michael T. Harter; her parents; a daughter, Tamela Gibbs; two grandsons, Brandon Johnson and Michael Austin; and sister, Sandra Zelt.
Charlene was an amazing mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and great-great-grandmother—an enduring testament to her life and legacy. She will be dearly missed by her daughters and by her entire family.
Funeral Service will be held on Monday, March 30, 2026 at 1:00 p.m. at D.O. McComb & Sons Funeral Homes - Lakeside Park, 1140 Lake Avenue, Fort Wayne, with visitation two hours prior. Entombment to follow at Greenlawn Memorial Park, 6600 Covington Road, Fort Wayne.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be directed towards Charlene's daughter, Laurie Johnson, to help the family in honoring Charlene's final wishes.
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the familyin care of Laurie Johnson, to help the family in honoring, Charlene's final wishes
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