Laura Harris

(From Peterson Funeral Chapel)

Laura Helen Harris (Johnson), 91, was born on July 8, 1934, to Holly and Otto Johnson just outside Marionville, Missouri. She was united in marriage to James M. Harris on August 31, 1951. Together they were blessed with six daughters, who remained the pride and joy of her life.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her beloved husband; her sister, Louise Forrester; her niece, Judy Allen; two grandsons, Jeff Sturgell and Tyrell Sturgell; one great-grandson, Keaton Fare; and one great-granddaughter, Desiree Fall.

She is lovingly remembered by her daughters: Meta (Austin) Sturgell, Marilyn (Kevin) Chambers, Jean (Norman) Sturgell, Carol (Jerry) Craig, Anita (Mike) Carr, and Amy (Tim) Jackson; 15 grandchildren; 40 great-grandchildren; 18 great-great-grandchildren; and many other cherished relatives and friends.

Laura’s life was rooted in faith and family. She was a lifelong member of First Baptist Church in Cape Fair, Missouri, and her love for God was evident in the way she lived each day. Some of her most treasured memories were the large family gatherings she enjoyed throughout her life. Growing up surrounded by many cousins, she often reminisced about those joyful get-togethers. Nothing made her happier than having all her daughters and their families together.

For many years, Laura worked at the Aurora Nursing Home, where she formed meaningful bonds with residents. She spoke often of how much she loved visiting with them and was especially proud of being named Employee of the Month.

Laura had a special place in her heart for babies. She treasured the time she spent caring for her grandchildren and, later, delighting in visits from them and their little ones.

She also enjoyed shopping, with a special fondness for Dollar Tree. Having grown up during the Great Depression, she was careful with her money and appreciated finding a good bargain.

Family was at the center of her home life. There was always a garden, and she faithfully canned the harvest each year, with help from her daughters. She was a wonderful cook, known especially for her Sunday fried chicken and her “to-die-for” chocolate pie—one of her personal favorites as well.

“Death leaves a heartache only God can heal. Love leaves memories no one can steal.”

Visitation will be held on Friday, February 20, 2026, from 6:00 to 7:00 PM in Peterson Funeral Chapel in Aurora, Missouri. Funeral services will take place on Saturday, February 21, 2026, at 1:00 p.m., also at Peterson Funeral Chapel. Interment will follow at Clio Cemetery in Jenkins, Missouri.

Arrangements are under the care of Peterson Funeral Chapel.