Shirley Anne Harris

Shirley Anne Harris, 99, passed away Thursday, September 4, 2025 in Johnston, Iowa.

Shirley was born in Granger, Iowa, in 1926. She attended St. Peter’s Catholic School and graduated from Des Moines East High School in 1944. During World War II, she worked as a telephone operator for Northwestern Bell, a role she took great pride in. In 1945, Shirley married William “Bill” Harris, and the couple settled in Des Moines following the end of the war. Shirley continued working for the phone company on and off for the next 40 years, balancing her career with her dedication to family life. In 1972, Shirley and Bill moved to Van Meter, Iowa, and later made their home at Lake Panora. From 1990 through 2005, they spent their winters in Surprise, Arizona, enjoying the warmth and sunshine during their retirement years. Shirley later lived at Walnut Ridge in Clive, Iowa, and spent the last five years of her life at Brio in Johnston, Iowa.

She was an avid golfer and a devoted fan of the Chicago Cubs and the Iowa Hawkeyes. Shirley's life was marked by her strong work ethic, her love of family, and her enduring spirit.

She is survived by her three sons, Bruce Harris of Osceola, Iowa, Brad (Brenda) Harris of Columbia, MO, and Bob (Lisa) Harris of Northfield, MN; as well as seven grandchildren and eight great -grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Marie and John Menough; brother, Clarke Menough; beloved sister, Patricia Dowson; husband of 59 years, William Harris; and her oldest son, William R. Harris, Jr.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:00 a.m. Saturday, September 27, 2025 at Saint Mary of Nazareth Catholic Church, 4600 Meredith Drive in Des Moines, Iowa with visitation one hour prior. Private burial will be held at Glendale Cemetery in Des Moines.

Memorial contributions may be directed to Dowling Catholic High School in loving memory of Shirley and condolences expressed at www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com.

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