Shirley Harris

In Loving Memory of Shirley Mae Harris

June 29, 1938 – August 13, 2025

Shirley Mae Harris, a devoted mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and faithful servant of the Lord, passed away peacefully on August 13, 2025, in Des Moines, Iowa, at the age of 87. Born on June 29, 1938, in Knoxville, Iowa, to Olious and Marguerite (Rumley) Washington, Shirley was raised in a close-knit family and graduated from Knoxville High School in the Class of 1956.

Shirley was a woman whose life was rooted in her love for Jesus Christ. Each morning, she began her day with praise and honor to her Heavenly Father. Her heart echoed the words of Psalm 27:8: "When thou saidst, Seek ye my face; my heart said unto thee, Thy face, Lord, will I seek." Her faith was not just a belief-it was a lifestyle. She lived by the Word, embraced the Lord's Prayer (Matthew 6:13), and leaned on God's truth and guidance, as in Psalm 25:4-5: "Show me thy ways, O Lord… teach me."

She lived a life of gratitude, holding close the words of 1 Chronicles 16:34: "O give thanks unto the Lord; for He is good; for His mercy endureth forever." Shirley modeled a heart of repentance, grace, and spiritual nourishment, as seen in Psalms 51 and John 6:35. Her relationship with the Lord was personal, powerful, and unwavering.

Shirley started her spiritual journey at All Nations Church of God in Christ and was an active member at Celebration Church in Des Moines, Iowa, where she dedicated her time and talents to the ministry and to helping those in need. She lived out her faith through service, always willing to lend a hand or offer encouragement.

She was the proud mother of Robin Harris and Johnetta (Virgil) Benson, and a loving and involved grandmother (Nana) to Dominic (Tricey) Walton, Chadima Abrego, Ricardo (Brandy) Benson, Robin (Alvis) Harris Jr., Jowelle (Marquis) Mitchell, Tony Benson, Marcus Harris, Juleo (Karina) Harris, Rena Harris, and Nia Berry. Her love extended to 19 great-grandchildren and 11great-great-grandchildren, all of whom were blessed by her nurturing spirit and godly wisdom.

Shirley's heart for children and youth extended beyond her family. Upon moving to Des Moines, she founded the Puma Track Club, a program that supported and mentored young athletes. She handled everything from scheduling to ordering uniforms, making sure each child had what they needed to succeed. This was an extension of her ministry-guiding, supporting, and loving the next generation.

She found joy in simple things: sewing, baking, spending time with loved ones, and bowling on weekends. Her competitive spirit and laughter made her a joy to be around. Her home was a safe haven, full of warmth, comfort, and encouragement.

Shirley is survived by her brother Robert (Peggy) Washington, sister-in-law, Julie Ann Washington, best friends Juanita Cameron and Ruby Byrd, along with numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. She was preceded in death by her parents, her infant son Tony Lawrence Harris, and her siblings Olious Washington Jr., James Washington, and Patricia Washington.

Shirley Mae Harris lived a life marked by faith, love, and service. She walked with the Lord every day, following the path He laid before her. As Psalm 23:1 reminds us, "The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want." May her legacy of love, faith, and compassion continue to guide and inspire all who were blessed to know her.