Colleen June Lapp

Colleen June Harclerode Lapp, 100, of LaVale, Maryland, passed away peacefully on August 7, 2026.

Born on June 29, 1926, in Everett, Pennsylvania, she was the daughter of the late Alberta and Thomas Harclerode. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Raymond Henry Lapp, Jr.; her brothers, Thomas and Richard Harclerode; and her grandson, Tony Romano. She is survived by her brother, Jack Harclerode.

On September 19, 1948, Colleen married the love of her life, Raymond Henry Lapp, Jr. Together they built a life centered on faith, family, and service, sharing nearly six decades of marriage.

A proud graduate of Memorial Hospital School of Nursing, Class of 1946, Colleen dedicated her career to caring for others. Nursing was more than a profession-it was a reflection of the compassion and servant's heart that defined her throughout her life.

One of Colleen's proudest accomplishments came in 1958, when she represented Maryland as Mrs. Maryland at the national Mrs. America pageant in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.

She is survived by her daughters, Constance Rae Beutelspacher, (widow of Barry Beutelspacher), of Frostburg, Maryland, and Jacqueline Rae Romano of Cumberland, Maryland; her granddaughters, Sarah Kuykendall (Michael) and Nina Garcia; and her cherished great-grandchildren, Baylee, Marley, Dorian, and Drake.

Colleen was a devoted member of LaVale United Methodist Church, where she faithfully sang in the church choir for many years. Her faith remained the foundation of her life and guided the way she cared for others.

She devoted countless hours to the Memorial Hospital Auxiliary, serving in numerous leadership positions, including two terms as president.

An avid golfer, Colleen was an active member of the Cumberland Country Club, where she also served in several leadership roles within the Women's Golf Association. She earned many tournament trophies throughout the years and celebrated the rare accomplishment of recording two holes-in-one.

Dedicated to her community, Colleen volunteered with numerous civic and charitable organizations throughout the Cumberland area. Whether through nursing, her church, or volunteer work, she quietly sought opportunities to serve others.

Colleen and Raymond made their home in LaVale, Maryland, while also enjoying summers at their home on Deep Creek Lake. Following Raymond's retirement, they spent many happy winters together in Key Largo, Florida, where they made lasting friendships and treasured many wonderful memories.

When Colleen was asked the secret to living to 100, she would simply smile and say:

"Get plenty of rest, eat sparingly, love the Lord, and play plenty of golf!"

Those words reflected the way she lived-with faith, gratitude, moderation, and an appreciation for life's simple joys.

The family extends its sincere gratitude to the compassionate staff of Sterling Care Assisted Living for the exceptional care, kindness, and dignity they provided during Colleen's final years. Their friendship and devotion brought great comfort to Colleen and to her family.

Colleen's favorite Bible verse was John 3:17:

"For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him."

Colleen found great comfort in this promise throughout her life. She believed it revealed God's heart for His people-that His love is greater than our failures, His mercy is freely given, and through Christ there is hope for all who believe. It is her family's prayer that others may also find peace and assurance in this same promise.

She will be remembered as a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, registered nurse, faithful Christian, golfer, volunteer, and friend. Her life was marked by service to others, devotion to her family, and an enduring faith that guided her every step.

In accordance with Colleen's wishes, she will be cremated. Arrangements have been entrusted to the care of Durst Funeral Home. Her ashes will be interred beside her beloved husband, Raymond Henry Lapp, Jr., at Rocky Gap Veterans Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you honor Colleen's memory by embracing the values she held dear. Love the Lord, extend grace to others, cherish the people in your life, and take time to appreciate God's blessings. Above all, may you find the same peace, harmony, and joy that she sought throughout her life.