Datha Lorene Harris, age 90, passed away at Tradewater Health and Rehab in Dawson Springs on Wednesday, November 12, 2025. She was born on February 7, 1935 in Madisonville, Kentucky to the late Jake Ausenbaugh and Nettie Goodaker Ausenbaugh. She was a beloved mother and homemaker and also worked for Illinois Central Gulf Railroad for 30 years. Datha was a proud graduate of Dawson Springs High School and was a member of Greater Faith Church.
Mrs. Harris is survived by her husband~ James Newman Harris of Dawson Springs, KY; one son and daughter-in-law ~ James Harvey and Vonda Harris of Dawson Springs, KY; one sister ~ Louise Cranor of Dawson Springs, KY; three grandchildren ~ Dustin Harris, Dylan Harris and Krista (Jamie) Swatzell and four great-grandchildren ~ Ashtyn, Baylee, Kye and Laiklynn.
She was preceded in death by her parents and one sister ~ Lois Davis.
Visitation for Datha Lorene Harris will be on Sunday, November 16, 2025 from 5:30 – 7:30 P.M. and on Monday, November 17, 2025 from 11:00 AM until the 1:00 funeral hour at Beshear Funeral Home in Dawson Springs, KY with Elder Jeff Winfrey officiating. Burial will follow in McNeeley Cemetery in Hopkins County, KY.
Pallbearers will be: Dustin Harris, Dylan Harris, Harvey Harris, Jamie Swatzell, C.J. Gates and Kye Swatzell.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
201 N Main St P.O. BOX 245, Dawson Springs, KY 42408
Memories and condolences can be left on the obituary at the funeral home website.


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