Shirley Gail Harper Harris

Shirley Gail Harris passed away on Tuesday, October 21, 2025 in Ward, Arkansas surrounded by family.

Shirley was born on January 20, 1935 in Lumberton, MS to Thomas Little and Ella Breazeale Harper. In her early years she evangelized with her sister Irene. Irene preached and she played the accordion. This close bond endured the test of time and she and Irene lived their later years together until Irene’s passing in December of 2024. 

God always had a plan and unknowingly, he was preparing her for bigger things. She married Cecil Harris and together they pastored churches in Philadelphia, MS. Canton, MS, Jayess, MS, and Theodore, AL.  She was a blessing to churches sharing her musical talent, playing the piano and singing. Upon retirement they made Turning Point UPC their church home until health limited their driving ability and the Sanctuary in Pascagoula fulfilled the need.  

Earlier this year she celebrated 90 years and what a day that was. Friends and family from everywhere joined in the celebration.  In the past few months her health declined and continued more rapidly than expected. We are thankful for the memories and the mercies of God that she did not suffer.  She is now at home; a home she labored her whole life for.

In addition to her parents, she is preceded in death by, Cecil Harris and their son, Randall Gene Harris; siblings, Lavelle Harper, Bonnie Hays, Inez Reynolds, Earlene Dobbs, R.B. Harper and Irene Killingsworth.

She is survived by three children, Rev Darryl Harris and his wife Joy of Ward, Arkansas, David Harris (Linda) and Leland Harris and wife Caileigh of Jackson, TN; 12 grandchildren and 18 great grandchildren and 20 great-great grandchildren; special friend, Fred.

Visitation will be Sunday, October 26, 2025 at Turning Point UPC in Gautier from 2-3 PM with funeral service to follow at 3 PM.   Graveside will conclude on Tuesday at Jackson County Memorial Park.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Shirley Gail Harper Harris, please visit our floral store.