Barbara Ann Harris

Barbara Ann Harris, age 91, passed away peacefully on Sunday, November 9, 2025, in Deerfield, Illinois. Born on July 15, 1934, in Chicago, she spent much of her life in Palos Hills and later in Oak Forest, where she lived for more than 20 years.
A proud graduate of Northern Illinois University, Barb dedicated her life to education and to the students at Indian Springs School District #109, where she taught second grade for many years. She was a beloved teacher whose warmth, patience, and passion for learning touched generations of children and families. Colleagues remember her as a dedicated educator whose gentle spirit and steady presence enriched the entire school community.
Teaching was not just her career but her calling. In retirement, Barb continued to find joy in nature, gardening, antiques, and craft fairs-and most of all, in the company of her dear friends.
Barbara's most cherished role was that of mother to her son, Michael Scott Harris, who was the light of her life. She was his greatest advocate and constant source of love and strength. They are now reunited in paradise following Michael's passing in 2021. She was also preceded in death by her sister, Ruth Wilke. Though she outlived much of her family, Barb was blessed with a close circle of friends, neighbors, and caregivers who became her extended family. Among them were her oldest and dearest friend Fran Orth of Nevada; her loving Oak Forest neighbors Michaeland Debra Slaight; her longtime friend Jenny Wojcik of Highland Park; and the compassionate Care Team at The Whitehall of Deerfield, which became her home away
from home in recent years. Their kindness and care brought her great comfort and companionship.
A visitation will begin at 10:30 a.m., followed by a funeral service at 11:30 a.m. on Friday, November 14, 2025, at Lack and Sons Funeral Home, 9236 S. Roberts Road,Hickory Hills, Illinois. Interment will follow at Resurrection Cemetery in Justice.