Obituary of Gayla Iris Harris

Gayla Iris Harris passed away peacefully in Ann Arbor, Michigan, in the presence of her daughter, Michelle Hagans, on May 2, 2014 at the age of 67. Breast cancer defeated her body, but never defeated her spirit. She made a difference to others' lives, through her faith in God and her faith in humanity, and will continue to be a positive influence on our lives for many years to come. She is survived by a proud and loving family, including her daughter and son-in-law, Doug Jones, and her brothers Raymond, Carl, and Bernard. Her presence will be sorely missed by more extended family and friends than can be listed. She is reunited with the late Ernest Day Harris and Zelma Elizabeth Harris (Sattler) of Allegan. She was a graduating member of Allegan High School Class of 1965. Gayla lived an active life, always focused on bringing joy to others. She was a flight attendant for United Airlines in her younger years, a brilliant mother to Michelle, a beloved pastor's wife, and an IT professional for schools. She also lived in Berrien Springs, Muskegon, New Era, Hesperia, Fremont, and Ann Arbor, MI, some happy years in Gordon, OH. She loved watching birds, camping, jet-skiing, doting on her fat cat Smokey, and driving fun vehicles. She never missed an opportunity to create gorgeous cards for loved ones. She celebrated everything, and loved everyone. Her family appreciates your thoughts and prayers, but asks for no flowers or gifts. Please donate to your local cancer centers, and to Hospice, in her memory. Most importantly, preserve her legacy and continue it in ways that you can do directly, daily: Plant some irises. Brighten friends' and strangers' days to the best of your ability. Be love, be joy, be sweet. Let her too-short life be an influence throughout our own lives to be good to each other no matter what turbulence we face. A private memorial celebration will be held in June.