"Mama was my greatest teacher, a teacher of compassion, love, and fearlessness. If love is sweet as a flower, then my mother is that sweet flower of love. "  - Stevie Wonder

Heaven gained a new master floral designer this week. Harriet Garbelman, founder of Harriet's Flowers,  passed away in the compassionate care of Lifepath Hospice in Sun City Center on August 25, 2022 at the age of 84, surrounded by family and of course - flowers.

Harriet was born in 1937 in Gainesville, Florida, to proud parents Violet and T.R. Hovey. A Florida woman through and through, her parents moved to Ruskin in the 1940's to put down roots - roots that would ultimately flourish throughout the community for generations to come.

One of the roots that run the deepest in our community is her flower shop - Harriet's Flowers - that's served the area for 70 years. Her passion came from her mother and father's love of plants, which she nurtured into a thriving business. As a second-generation business owner, she's made this community a happier, brighter, more vibrant place through her art and passion for floral design. From amaryllis to zinnia, no flower is left untouched by her magic. But orchids, orchids were always her favorite. A frequent visitor to Palmer's Orchids, she'd spend hours among the flowers talking to God and taking in their beauty.

If you thought her flowers were something else, wait until you see her family!

Harriet is survived by her three children, Gary (Connie) Garbelman, Gail (Brantz) Roszel, and Glenn (Shannon) Garbelman. Fondly known as Nammie, Nam-a-roo, and Nam, her legacy lives on through her six (6) grandchildren, their spouses, and eight (8) great grandchildren. She is preceded in death by her mother and father, Violet and T.R. Hovey, as well as many beloved aunts and uncles.

A memorial will be held for Harriet at Ruskin United Methodist Church (105 Fourth Ave NW, Ruskin FL) on Wednesday, August 31st. Visitation will begin at 11 AM, followed by a service at 12 noon, and a gathering to follow.

Purple was Harriet's signature color. To honor her memory, the family would love to see attendees wear shades of purple to celebrate her life and legacy.

In continuing to honor Harriet, the flower shop will be designing flowers and taking orders for her memorial or, should friends desire, contributions may be made to the Lifepath Hospice ( https://lifepathhospice.chaptershealth.org/GeneralDonation 813-871-8444) or another charity of your choice.