Wes attended Bethany Nazarene College in the forties, and graduated in 1950. Our church had the privilege of outfitting Wes and his new wife, Modelle with many things they needed on their departure to the mission field of Trinidad - including a new refrigerator! After their first term of five years in Trinidad, they returned to the States. Once again, our church showed how they take care of their missionaries by providing them with funds to buy a new car. Wes and Modelle have three children.

Wes returned to BNC and received a Masters degree in Religion in 1970. He then went to the University of Oklahoma and received his Master of Arts in Philosophy. He is credited for having started the Philosophy Department at SNU in 1974, and the Men’s Soccer program at SNU in 1978.

Hundreds of students recall Coach Harmon’s leadership on the soccer field as Christ-like. Dean Morgan, former SNU Soccer team player and current member of our church recalls being impressed as a freshman that Coach Harmon always prayed this prayer before the games, “Lord, we don’t pray that we win this game, but that you help us do the best of the ability you’ve given us. Keep all on both teams free from injury. Amen.” Coach Harmon influenced Dean in such a way that he and his wife, Melissa, asked Wes to dedicate both of their sons right here at OKC First. Many recall fondly his humor and wisdom in the classroom as well. He retired from full time coaching and teaching in 1997, yet continued to teach in an adjunct role until 2003.

Wes has been active in our church for over 50 years, serving the Lord through this local congregation, and the international church. In this local church, he has served as Sunday School teacher of the Friendship Class, board member, and as a member of the Oklahoma City First Nazarene Foundation.

If you travel to Trinidad today, you will find that all Nazarenes speak fondly and with respect of the Harmons. In fact, in Trinidad, you will also find the Wesley Harmon Library. This gracious and kind man blessed many – in Trinidad and in the states.

Wes Harmon passed away in April of 2006 and his loving wife Modelle passed away in January of 2007. Although they are dearly missed in the life of our church, their impact continues, not only in many fond memories, but also through generous gifts designated for OKC First Church of the Nazarene in their passing.