Fullerton & Central City, NE – With profound sorrow and hearts heavy with grief, the communities of Fullerton, Central City, and Polk are mourning the tragic loss of Adrian Elizabeth Harlow, 15, who passed away on July 10, 2025, following a swimming accident. Her sudden and heartbreaking death has left her family, friends, classmates, and neighbors reeling, struggling to comprehend the loss of such a vibrant and beloved young life.
Born on July 16, 2009, in Aurora, Nebraska, Adrian was a student at High Plains High School, where she was known for her fierce independence, infectious smile, and loving spirit. A dedicated softball player and outdoor enthusiast, Adrian cherished time spent with her teammates on the field and peaceful fishing outings with her father.
Adrian’s nurturing heart shone through in her relationships — especially with her beloved bunnies, her niece Kinsley, nephew Gunnar, and her many younger cousins who adored her as their playful and attentive “big cousin.” She was a constant source of joy at family gatherings and a gentle soul who made everyone feel loved and seen.
She dreamed of becoming a welder, looked forward to her 16th birthday, and was excited about getting her driver’s license. Adrian was a young woman of strength, ambition, and kindness, with a future filled with promise.
She is survived by her loving parents, Brian “Beef” Harlow and Tasha Thomsen; her sister, Cailen Harlow; niece Kinsley and nephew Gunnar; her grandparents, Terry and Linda Harlow, and Matt and Sherri Means; her stepfather, Shane Deibert; step-sisters, Adi and Izzy Deibert; and a large extended family of aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends who 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 a final, selfless act of love, Adrian donated her organs, giving the gift of life to others — a legacy of compassion and strength that will continue far beyond her years.
Service Information:
Funeral: Tuesday, July 15, 2025, at 10:30 a.m. at the Hordville Event Center, officiated by Pastor Dan Walter.
Visitation: Monday, July 14, from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. at the same location.
Interment: Central City Cemetery.
Adrian Elizabeth Harlow’s light was taken far too soon, but her spirit will forever shine in the hearts of those who knew her, the laughter she sparked, and the lives she saved. She will be remembered always — with love, with tears, and with endless gratitude for the time she gave this world.