Haines City Mourns the Tragic Loss of Jeremy Varney, Beloved Resident Killed in Motorcycle Accident
HAINES CITY, FL — October 13, 2025 — It is with great sorrow and heavy hearts that the community of Haines City, Florida, shares the tragic news of the passing of Jeremy Varney, a devoted family man, cherished friend, and well-known local figure who lost his life in a fatal motorcycle accident over the weekend.
Jeremy, 38, was involved in a collision on Saturday evening, October 11, on US Highway 27, just outside the city limits. According to the Florida Highway Patrol, Varney was traveling southbound on his motorcycle when another vehicle reportedly made a left-hand turn into his path. Emergency responders were dispatched immediately, and Jeremy was transported to AdventHealth Heart of Florida, where he was later pronounced dead.
The accident remains under investigation, but authorities have indicated that speed or impairment on Jeremy’s part does not appear to be a factor. No charges have been announced as of this writing.
A Life Cut Short, A Legacy Remembered
News of Jeremy Varney’s sudden passing has cast a shadow of grief across Haines City, where he was not only a familiar face but a deeply loved member of the community. Friends and family describe him as someone who “never met a stranger” — a man whose big heart, loyal spirit, and infectious laughter touched the lives of everyone he met.
“He was the kind of guy who’d stop what he was doing to help someone change a tire, or just listen if you needed someone to talk to,” said Mike Reyes, a close friend. “Jeremy loved his bike, the open road, and his people. He lived his life with purpose and heart.”
Jeremy worked as a skilled technician in HVAC repair and was admired for his work ethic and pride in his trade. Clients became friends, and co-workers became family — a testament to how naturally he formed bonds with those around him.
A Passionate Rider
Motorcycles were more than a hobby to Jeremy — they were part of his identity. He was an experienced rider who often participated in charity bike runs, veterans’ rides, and motorcycle club meetups across Polk County and beyond.
“He had respect for the road, for his bike, and for others,” said fellow rider and club member Travis Milton. “It wasn’t about speed or showing off for Jeremy — it was about freedom. It was therapy, it was joy.”
His love of riding was matched only by his sense of community. Jeremy was known to organize local meetups and supported events that raised funds for children’s hospitals, food drives, and disaster relief efforts. In life, he served others. In his passing, the community is coming together to return that love.
A Devoted Family Man
Beyond his public presence, Jeremy’s greatest pride was his role as a father, partner, son, and brother. He leaves behind his longtime partner Rachel Jennings, their two children Logan (12) and Ava (8), and his parents Tom and Linda Varney, all of whom are navigating a grief no words can fully ease.
“Jeremy was the rock of our family,” Rachel shared in a statement. “He loved us with everything he had, and we loved him the same. Our hearts are broken, but we’re grateful for the time we had with him. He was the best of us.”
A GoFundMe page has been established by family friends to help support Rachel and the children during this difficult time and to assist with funeral expenses. The page has seen a tremendous outpouring of support, reflecting the depth of Jeremy’s impact across the community.
Honoring a Life Well Lived
A memorial ride in Jeremy’s honor is being organized by his fellow riders and friends, with plans to trace a route he often rode along Lake Eva and through the scenic back roads of Polk County. The event will conclude at a local park, where a celebration of life will be held with food, music, and an open mic for stories and tributes.
The Varney family has also confirmed funeral arrangements will be handled by Oak Ridge Funeral Care, with services scheduled for later this week. Details will be shared publicly through local outlets and social media.
A Final Farewell
As the city of Haines City gathers to mourn, remember, and honor Jeremy Varney, his legacy lives on in every person he helped, every laugh he shared, and every mile he rode with purpose.
In a world often marked by indifference, Jeremy stood out — not for trying to be noticed, but for living with compassion, loyalty, and love.
Ride in peace, Jeremy. Your road doesn’t end here. It just opens to new horizons.
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