Shirley Louise Harris, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and friend, passed away peacefully May 30, 2026 at Patriots Colony in Williamsburg at the age of 86.
Born on July 10, 1939, in Spokane, Washington Shirley lived a life defined by devotion to family, service to others, and quiet strength. Innately gifted and creative, she filled her home and the lives of those around her with beauty, warmth, and care. She volunteered at her children’s schools and devoted countless hours to creative pursuits that became expressions of her love for family and friends.
Shirley painted, created stained glass art, refinished furniture, sewed beautiful clothing and home décor, and professionally framed treasured prints and artwork. Her many talents, generous spirit, and thoughtful attention to others touched everyone who knew her.
Shirley was the valedictorian of her high school class. During high school, she was a member of the Silver Spurs traveling dance troupe and appeared on television on the Ted Mack and the Original Amateur Hour as part of a national dance tour that spanned 23 states. She later graduated from Washington State University, where she majored in Psychology, was a member of the Chi Omega sorority, and was inducted into Phi Beta Kappa.
After college, Shirley became a homemaker and military spouse living in Texas, Michigan, Georgia, Virginia, Colorado, and Arkansas. She created a loving and welcoming home through years of travel, sacrifice, and steadfast support of her family. Her grace, compassion, and unwavering encouragement were the foundation of family life and a source of strength to those she loved.
Shirley was preceded in death by her parents, Margaret and Thomas Moore, and by her first husband, Felix Fabian, Jr.
Shirley is survived by her devoted husband, Rufus Harris; her brother, Thomas Moore, Jr.; her son, Robert (Karina); her daughter, Sara (Tim); and five cherished grandchildren, who brought immense joy and pride to her life.
Known for her gentle spirit, thoughtful nature, and deep love for her family, Shirley will be profoundly missed and lovingly remembered by all whose lives she touched.
A private family service will be held in her memory in Longview, Texas later this summer. In lieu of flowers, the family encourages acts of kindness and remembrance in Shirley’s honor.
