With hearts full of sorrow yet uplifted by her memory, we share the tragic passing of Adrian Elizabeth Harlow, age 15, of Fullerton and Central City, Nebraska. Adrian lost her life far too soon on July 10, 2025, due to a swimming accident. Her unexpected departure has left her family, friends, and community in deep mourning.
Born on July 16, 2009, in Aurora, Nebraska, to Brian Harlow and Tasha Thomsen, Adrian was a bright light in the lives of all who knew her. A proud student of High Plains High School in Polk, she was known for her fierce independence, loving heart, and infectious smile. She played softball with passion and pride, finding joy in her teammates and the game itself. Her adventurous soul loved the outdoors, especially fishing trips with her father, and she found peace in nature’s quiet moments.
Adrian’s nurturing spirit was most evident in the gentle way she cared for her beloved bunnies and the playful, devoted attention she gave to her niece Kinsley, her nephew Gunnar, and her many younger cousins. Always surrounded by little ones at family gatherings, Adrian was their favorite — a big cousin who made them feel loved and important.
Adrian was eagerly looking forward to her upcoming birthday and earning her driver’s license, with dreams of one day becoming a welder. She was a young woman with ambition, resilience, and kindness far beyond her years.
She is survived by her loving parents, Brian “Beef” Harlow and Tasha Thomsen; her sister, Cailen Harlow; her niece Kinsley and nephew Gunnar; her grandparents Terry and Linda Harlow, and Matt and Sherri Means; her stepfather Shane Deibert; and her step-sisters Adi and Izzy Deibert. She also leaves behind many aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends who loved her dearly and will miss her beyond words.
Adrian was preceded in death by her great-grandparents Paula Simkins, Judy Denlinger, Frank and Illene Harlow, and Wayne Schuller.
In an extraordinary final act of compassion and courage, Adrian donated her organs, giving the gift of life to others in need. Her legacy will forever live on — not only in the hearts of those who knew and loved her but also in the lives she helped save.
Funeral services will be held on Tuesday, July 15, 2025, at 10:30 a.m. at the Hordville Event Center, with Pastor Dan Walter officiating. Visitation will take place at the same location on Monday, July 14th, from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. Interment will follow at the Central City Cemetery.
Adrian’s light may have gone from this world, but her spirit will continue to shine brightly in the love she gave, the lives she touched, and the hope she inspired.
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