Mrs. Sylvia Harris

Sylvia Ann Harris was born on September 15, 1935, to Donald and Linnie Cotton in Kansas City, Kansas, as the cherished youngest of four daughters: Donneta Cotton Banks, Floretta Cotton Poke, and Joyce Cotton Battle. She was preceded in death by her devoted parents; her beloved husband, Herbert R. Harris; her daughter, Porcia C. Harris-Hudson; and her three dear sisters.
A proud graduate of Sumner High School in Kansas City, Kansas, Sylvia married her high school sweetheart, Herbert, and together they embarked on an extraordinary journey of love and dedication. As a military wife for over 25 years, she gracefully navigated life across two continents, five states, and countless cities, raising four children with unwavering faith and resilience. Through every transition and challenge, she embodied her favorite mantra: "Assess and adjust"-a testament to her adaptability, wisdom, and trust in God's plan.
Upon returning to Kansas City, Kansas, Sylvia worked as a data processor for the Federal Reserve Bank while continuing her lifelong commitment to service. Her generous spirit touched countless lives as she prepared and served lunches for the Quindaro Community Summer enrichment program and volunteered as a reading tutor for first and second graders at Quindaro Elementary School. Her civic engagement flourished through her leadership with Church Women United and her active membership in the Democratic Women of Wyandotte County.
Sylvia's deep faith was the cornerstone of her life. Baptized at King Solomon Baptist Church, she served faithfully at the local, district, and state levels of the Kaw Valley District before moving her membership to First Baptist Church of Quindaro under the pastoral leadership of Rev. Dr. Stacy E. Hopkins, and later Rev. Lemuel Wynn and its current Pastor, Rev. Vernon Gladdis. There, she served with distinction as a Deaconess and devoted member of the Missionary Dorcas Circle. Her calling to encourage, support, pray, and share words of wisdom blessed all who knew her until she answered God's higher call.
Sylvia leaves to celebrate her remarkable life and cherish her memory: three sons, Herbert B. Harris (Linda); Clayborn C. Harris; and David W. Harris; seven grandchildren, Tamila D. Harris, Herbert Brandon Harris, Elijah A. Harris, Gabriel Harris, Caleb M. Hudson (Breana), Natasha Harris, and Latisha Badart; great-grandson Benaiah Hudson; and a host of nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends whose lives she touched with her kindness and grace.
Her Wisdom Lives On: "God is in Control" "You assess and then adjust" "God's got the plan" "God's Grace"
Sylvia Ann Harris lived a life of purpose, devotion, and boundless love. Her legacy of faith, service, and gentle wisdom will continue to inspire all who were blessed to know her
Funeral Services will be held on Saturday November 8, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at First Baptist of Quindaro 3030 Farrow Ave. 66104. Interment: Chapel Hill Cemetery. Visitation: 9 – 11:00 a.m. at the Church. Arrangements entrusted to Lawrence A. Jones & Sons Funeral Chapels. Condolences may be shared on our website lawrenceajones.com