Lou Annette Harkins

With a heart as big as her personality, Lou Annette Harkins, affectionately known as "LouLou" or "Memaw", brought laughter and love to all who knew her. Born on September 19, 1963, in Houston, Texas, she was a beacon of joy throughout her 62 years, until her passing on November 15, 2025. But even then, she remained the star of her own life's show. Lou was a devoted wife, mother, daughter, Memaw, sister, and friend. Her family was her greatest joy, and she carried a deep love for each of them.
She is survived by her children: Joseph "Lil Anthony/Bubba" Harkins, Nikki Burrow and husband Brian, Laura Harkins and partner Eli, Daniel Harkins and wife Kat, Bobby Harkins and wife Haley, Cody Harkins, John Harkins and partner Chloe, Jeromy Harden and partner Chelsea. She is also survived by her siblings: Mike Shelton, Debbie Kvinta, Darrel Allen, and Joe Doug Allen. Lou was a beloved Memaw to: Bryson Harkins, Kyla Gregory, Allie Darnell, Carlee Gregory, Ayden Burrow, Junior McMahan, Landen Burrow, Carter Harkins, Kolton Harkins, Charleigh Harkins, Ava Lou Harkins, Beau Harkins, Case Harkins, Crew Harkins, Bobby Harkins, and Braxton Harkins.
She was preceded in death by her mother Betty Allen, father Bobbie Allen, sister Shirley Els, brother-in-law John Els, mother-in-law MaryCarol Clark, and her cherished dogs Cash Harkins and Phatty Harkins.
LouLou was the embodiment of humor, love, and generosity. She tackled life like a stand-up comedian, always ready with a joke and a smile, even when the joke was on her. Her laughter was contagious, her spirit strong, and her ability to love was endless. To say she was funny is an understatement. Her love brought comfort to everyone around her, and her generosity was as legendary as her famous chicken and dumplin's - which, by the way, were no laughing matter unless you count the fights over who got the bottom of the pot. If you knew her, you knew she had a house full of food, a hot meal on the stove, and a bed you could sleep in for as long as you needed.
She opened her home - and her heart - to anyone who walked through her door. As we say goodbye to LouLou, let's not dwell on our loss but celebrate the gift of her life. She wouldn't want tears unless they were from laughing too hard. LouLou, the world is a little less bright without your spark, but heaven just got a whole lot funnier. Keep them laughing up there, will you? And maybe save us a seat at your next gig - we wouldn't miss it for the world.