Born on September 7, 1953, in Wichita Falls, Texas, Joe’s life was a testament to the rugged and resilient spirit of the American cowboy. Joe grew up in Archer City, where he was instilled with the cowboy way of life by his father. From a young age, he embraced the values of hard work, integrity, and a profound love for the open range. These formative years in Archer City shaped Joe into the man he would become—a true cowboy through and through.
In 1972, Joe graduated from Archer City High School, marking the beginning of his journey into adulthood. Eager to further hone his skills, he attended the Oklahoma Farrier College in Sperry, Oklahoma. There, he mastered the art of shoeing horses, a craft that would become a cornerstone of his life.
Joe spent many years traveling across the country, working for numerous ranches. His travels allowed him to forge lasting friendships, and many of his friends became like family. Joe’s life on the road was filled with the camaraderie and adventure that epitomize the cowboy way of life.
In his later years, Joe became a well-known blacksmith and cowboy cook, revered for his craftsmanship and culinary prowess. His blacksmithing skills were sought after by many, and his reputation as a skilled farrier spread far and wide. Additionally, Joe’s ability to cook hearty, delicious meals over an open flame made him a cherished figure at cowboy gatherings and events.
Joe will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all who knew him. He is preceded in death by his parents, Dollie (Bowling) and James “Jack” Harney. He is survived by his daughters, Chelseay Harney of Seymour, Texas, and Haley Harney of Dean, Texas; and his three grandsons, Heston Harney of Seymour, Tilden Hampton of Dean, and Hadley Maddox of Kingston, Oklahoma. For those desiring, memorial contributions may be sent to the Archer Service Center.
Jersey Joe Harney’s life was one of dedication, craftsmanship, and a deep love for the cowboy lifestyle. His skills as a blacksmith and farrier were widely respected, and his ability to cook for large gatherings made him a beloved figure in the community. Joe’s presence at cowboy events was always a highlight, and his loss is felt deeply by all who had the privilege of knowing him.
Tributes have poured in from friends, family, and fans who admired Joe for his work ethic, his storytelling, and his warm, approachable nature. Many have shared fond memories of Joe’s stories, his laughter, and the sense of community he fostered wherever he went. His daughters and grandsons remember him as a loving father and grandfather who always had a kind word and a smile.
As the community mourns the loss of Jersey Joe Harney, they also celebrate the life of a man who embodied the true spirit of the American cowboy. His legacy of hard work, craftsmanship, and love for the open range will continue to inspire future generations. Joe’s memory will live on in the hearts of those who knew him, and his contributions to the cowboy way of life will not be forgotten.
The family plans to release further details regarding Joe’s obituary and funeral arrangements in due course. In the meantime, the community is encouraged to honor his memory by supporting the Archer Service Center or engaging in acts of kindness that reflect Joe’s generous spirit.
