Kathy Harris

(From Mason-Woodard Mortuary)

Kathleen Ann Harris (Garrett), age 65, of El Dorado Springs, Missouri, passed away peacefully, surrounded by her loving family, in the early hours of Friday morning, April 25, at Citizens Memorial Hospital in Bolivar, Missouri, after a courageous battle with illness.

Born on October 24, 1959, in St. Louis, Missouri, to George and Betty Garrett, Kathy faced life's challenges with a quiet strength (or in your face, depending on who you were) that inspired all who knew her. Her love knew no bounds, extending warmly to family and countless friends. She was a fierce protector of those she held dear, always ready with unwavering support and a helping hand. Her children remember countless times she stood up for them, a true mama bear, while also offering a comforting embrace when needed.

Kathy and her husband Phil shared a deep and abiding love, a partnership built on love, hard work and dedication, partnered with shared laughter and unwavering support. As a mother, she poured her heart and soul into her children Brandon, Tori, and Keifer, nurturing their individual spirits and celebrating their every milestone. She took her lessons from her late mother-in-law, Dee Harris, who had such an impact on her life throughout her adult years.

Becoming "MooMow" brought a new sparkle to her eyes. She embraced this role with joy, creating cherished memories with her nine grandchildren William Hernandez , Cydney Garrett, Cylus Garrett, Wesley Garrett, Lucca Garrett, Ransom Meister, Cole Burzinski, Gabby Burzinski, Ethan Harris, Layla Harris, who were the light of her life. They will forever remember her heavy hugs, her tickles, and her undying love.

Preceding Kathy in death are her beloved parents, George “Papaw” and Betty Garrett; her brother, Jason Garrett; her mother-in-law Deloris Harris and her cherished grandchildren, Braxton Garrett and Aurora Meister.







She is survived by her loving husband, Phil Harris; her son Brandon Garrett and his wife Beth, who she welcomed as her own; her daughter Tori Harris, her hardheaded and caring daughter; and her son Keifer Harris and his wife Megan, who brought so much joy to her life. She also leaves behind her brothers, Pat Garrett and his wife Kelly of Wheatland, MO, and Richard Garrett and wife Sandra of Pleasant Hill, Mo, her sister, Samantha Russell of Montana; and many other extended family members and friends, all of whom were touched by her kindness, her unwavering support, and her infectious laughter through the years.

A family-held celebration of life will be scheduled at a date and time yet to be determined. 

Arrangements are under the direction of Mason-Woodard Mortuary & Crematory – Joplin, MO.