Mary Harris
Mary A. (Conn) Harris, 58, died July 1, 2017 from complications from esophageal cancer in St. Louis, MO surrounded by her loving family.
She was born in Fort Wayne, IN to Albert B. and Bernice C. (Riesmeyer) Conn on December 15, 1958 and married Greg Harris on June 21, 1997. A 1977 graduate of Heritage High School in Monroeville, IN she was employed at Dana Weatherhead until its closure. She then moved to Hampton, VA and worked at Howmet for 25 years.
Mary loved to celebrate holidays, her favorite of which was Halloween. She was known for her elaborate costume creations. Through her numerous battles with cancer, she never lost her love for kayaking, gardening, water aerobics, the ocean, traveling and Key West, FL. She even became a staunch advocate, fundraising for the American Red Cross and cancer research. Last year Mary moved to the St. Louis area to be close to family.
She is survived by her siblings Michael Conn, Auburn, IN, Deborah (Gary) Sherman, St. Louis, MO, Lori (Neil) Donahoe, Milford, IN, and Susan (Lamont) Tolbert, Phoenix, AZ, her husband Greg Harris, Hampton, VA, and numerous nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents. Preferred memorials may be given to the American Red Cross and the American Cancer Society.
Per her wishes, memorial will be private.
My sympathy to your entire family. I love how her photograph captures her remarkable smile. I can recall with a big smile my elementary (Hessen Cassle) school days and sleep overs at your home, early 70’s music as we practiced our beauty skills in your Moms shop. Life was good in the addition!
We are so very sorry to hear of Mary’s illness and death. May you find comfort through the love of family and friends, memories, and the belief of our faith. There is absolutely no doubt that she is laughing in Heaven with your parents! God bless you,
Love, Dick & Nora
I dearly loved Mary. We would go to dinner with her and greg for years. Mary and I would go to bush gardens on halloween. I think she was the most Greatest woman I knew her strength was Unbelievable. I will always miss her.
Worked with Mary at Dana, got together with her when she came to Fort Wayne. Life long friends of a super person. Condolences to friends and family