Harney & Sons founder passes away at 83
John Harney, founder of Harney & Sons Fine Teas, passed away last week at the age of 83. Harney started the company, which recently celebrated its 30th birthday, in 1983 at age 53. According to his son Michael, he pioneered loose teas when Americans were primarily consuming instant beverages. Prior to starting the company, Harney served in the US Marine Corps and attended the Cornell University School of Hotel Administration. He is survived by his wife, Elyse, five children and nine grandchildren. Harney & Sons Fine Teas currently operates a 90,000 square feet warehouse in Millerton, NY and employs over 160 people.