Mary Harris Obituary

Mary Harris

May 21, 1945 - July 7, 2025

Mary Amelia Harris (née Meyer), 80, of Geneseo, Ill., passed away peacefully on July 7, 2025, in her home. Visitation will be held at Vandemore Funeral Home & Crematory – Geneseo Chapel on Monday, July 14, 2025 from 1 to 2 p.m., followed by a memorial service at 2 p.m. Pastor Lisa Hunsaker will officiate. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Aisle of Flags, Rebuilding Together, Inspire Geneseo – Atkinson in Mary's memory.

Born on May 21, 1945, in Columbus, Ohio, she was the beloved daughter of Richard and Antonia (Meier) Meyer, both immigrants from Germany who instilled in Mary a deep appreciation for family, hard work, and quiet strength.

Mary was the devoted wife of John Wesley "Wes" Harris, with whom she shared 55 years of marriage until his passing in March 2025. They met while working at Aberdeen Proving Ground in Maryland and later continued their careers at Rock Island Arsenal in Rock Island, Ill. They were married on August 30, 1969, and together built a life rooted in love, mutual respect, and deep commitment to family and community.

After moving to Geneseo, Mary worked at Rock Island Arsenal, then stepped away from her career to focus on raising their daughter, Leslie. Later, she returned to the Arsenal, resuming her professional work with the same dedication she brought to all aspects of her life-balancing career, family, and community with quiet strength and grace.

Mary was a loving and supportive mother and grandmother to Nicholas, Emma, Isaac, and Charlie, always present with a kind word, warm smile, and gentle spirit. She was the kind of person who was genuinely liked by everyone who met her, remembered for her grace, quiet humor, and unwavering kindness.

As the Proverbs 31 woman, "She opens her mouth with wisdom, and the teaching of kindness is on her tongue" (NIV). Mary's life was a reflection of that wisdom and kindness, lived out daily in quiet acts of love and service. "Her children rise up and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praises her."

She gave generously of her time and talents to her community, volunteering at Hammond-Henry Hospital, serving on the Geneseo Historical Museum Board, and actively supporting the Geneseo Band Boosters Board and Geneseo Choral Boosters Board. She also volunteered regularly at the First Congregational United Church of Christ.

Mary is preceded in death by her parents, Richard and Antonia Meyer, and her husband, Wes Harris. She is survived by her daughter, Leslie (Mark) Stock; her grandchildren, Nicholas, Emma, Isaac, and Charlie; her sister, Eve Clarke of Columbus, Ohio; her brother-in-law and sister-in-law, James and Paula Harris; and many extended family members and dear friends. Among them are Max and Meg Radue and Bob and Ann Schwieder, whose unwavering friendship and care were an invaluable part of Mary's life.

Vandemore Funeral Home & Crematory

580 E Ogden Ave

Geneseo, IL 61254