John Harned was born in Valene, Orange Co., Indiana, on Dec. 23, 1841. On Dec. 16, 1866, at the residence of her father, Newton York, he was married to Sarah York, who was a true helpmeet to his future years. To them were born five sons and three daughters: William, Michael, Emory, John, and May lived to adulthood. Three of the children died young.

For a few years after his marriage John continued on the farm. But being pressed in spirit regarding his lifework, he employed a man to take charge of the farm and began his preparation for the ministry. On Oct. 11, 1875, he, together with sixteen others, was received on trial into the Des Moines Conference. Two years later he was admitted into full membership; Bishop E.R. Ames ordained him deacon at Boonesboro in 1877; and Bishop Harris ordained him elder at Des Moines in 1879. His warm heart and sunny disposition speedily gave him a large place in the confidence and love of his brethren. He was one of three brothers, members of the Des Moines Conference, the other two being William F. and Michael R., all of them men of sterling worth and all eminently successful preachers of the Word.
Brother Harned's labors were of an evangelistic type. His direct and earnest appeal in sermon and song were blessed of God in the salvation of many souls. An outstanding feature of his work is seen in the number of men whom he led into the ministry, same of whom inherited his fervent and aggressive spirit in the winning of men to Christ. Whatever of disappointment or sacrifice, or hardship attended his removal from place to place was borne with cheerfulness and a truimphant faith. His devotion to God was complete.
Seven years ago he retired from the active ranks and moved to Derby in order that he might be near to his daughter who resides there. For several years he has been in frail health, but still found his delight in the house of the Lord and the fellowship of God's people. For same months the decline has been more pronounced. He calmly awaited the end and as confidently spoke of his well-grounded Christian hope. He passed away on May 31, 1921, at Derby,IA. The funeral sermon was preached by the Rev. William B. Thompson, a cherished friend of the family and beloved member of the Des Moines Conference, pastor at Davis City.

(Taken from the Official Minutes of the Des Moines Conference, 1921).

He is buried at the Derby Cemetery, along with his wife, Sarah,who died on Dec. 11, 1929.