Francis Fay Harris

Frances Faye Hill Harris, better known as Fran, Mom, and Oma, was born on Sept 27, 1923, in Granite City, Illinois, and raised in Madison, Illinois. She returned home to her Lord and Savior on November 16, 2022, at the age of 99. Fran was born an only child to Frank and Thelma Hill. Although she was an only child she grew up in the company of many aunts, uncles, and cousins. She married the love of her life, Gardiner D. Harris, better known as Gard, Dad, and Doda, on February 13, 1946. Gard peacefully passed away in 2014 with Fran by his side. Their love story started in Springfield, Illinois as fate brought them together at a bus station while Fran was traveling and Gard boarded her bus due to his motorcycle breaking down on his cross-country trip. They would be together for 68 years, putting roots down on a ranch in Woodlake, CA where they raised three children and lived for 67 years. As a young girl Fran dedicated much of her time assisting and caring for those in need at her grandmother, Bahbo's (whom she adored) Mission. At 16 years old, Fran graduated 2 years early from high school. Thereafter, she worked as a phone operator and then a secretary, enjoying daily rides on the street car to and from work. As a wife and mother, she participated in PTA, Garden Club, was a secretary for the Wutchumna Irrigation District, and was the librarian for the Woodlake Library. She was also a healer for the Order of St. Luke. Fran was a devotee of Jesus Christ and a beautiful singer and musician who shared her gifts as an organist for decades at the local Presbyterian and later at the Episcopal church. Her love for Jesus shined through to everyone who met her; A true healer. As the matriarch of her family, Fran spent the entirety of her life surrounded by family and loved ones. She was lighthearted, had a great sense of humor and her love was unconditional. She was adored and cherished by her 32 grand and great-grandchildren. Frances spent the last 9 years of her life as a resident of Quail Park. She was treated with the utmost love and care by her caregivers and the staff. Her family would like to extend their appreciation and love for the wonderful care Quail Park provided to Fran. Her family is eternally grateful. To truly honor our beloved Fran, her three children, Doralynn Harris-Nelson (Howard Nelson), Greg Harris, and Gayle Nelson (Larry Nelson), will be holding an intimate celebration of life after the holidays to allow for the many out-of-town family members to attend. While no funeral service is currently scheduled, a celebration of life ceremony will be announced at a future date. Updates will be made via social media. In lieu of flowers, please donate to Kaweah Health Hospice Foundation 216 S Johnson St. Visalia, CA. 93291.In memory of Fran Harris for the benefit of the Ruth Wood Open Arms House (RWOAH) Donations can also be made online at kaweahhealth.org/our-services/hospice/hospice-foundation Services have been entrusted to Salser & Dillard Funeral Chapel. Memorial Tributes and condolences may be offered by logging onto www.salseranddillard.com.

Francis Fay Harris

September 27, 1923 - November 16, 2022