Maryjane Woodrow Harris, age 81, passed away on June 22, 2008 in Pasadena, California after a brief hospitalization. Born March 3, 1927 in Los Angeles, she graduated from the University of Southern California in 1949. While at USC she was a member of Kappa Alpha Theta sorority, was elected Helen of Troy, and was a member of both the Amazon Honorary Society and Mortar Board.
In May of 1950, Maryjane married John W. Harris, her life-long love. John and MJ first lived in Hastings Ranch, California, where they began a family. In 1957 they moved to San Marino. There she became a dedicated member of The San Marino Republican Club and a strong supporter of countrywide Republican politics. She was greatly admired for her wit and courage in speaking out on important and sometimes controversial political issues. She won the Betsy Ross Award for Outstanding Woman Republican. Until her passing, MJ was sought out for her opinion regarding politics, parenting and life as a Christian.
Maryjane’s family and four boys were always her greatest joy. She was deeply involved in most all of their organized activities, including a longtime member of the PTA, a Cub Scout leader, a team mother for their various sports teams, a boy’s bible study group leader, the president of their fraternity Mother’s Club, and much more. And since her youngest son (Evan) arrived nearly sixteen years after her first three (John, Ralph and Brent), MJ did most of it twice! During nearly forty years of their education, she was tireless and spectacular in her support.
Maryjane was beautiful in every way and had an impeccable sense of style. She was a kind and gracious lady who enjoyed longtime friendships with many people from many parts of the world. Virtually everyone she met more than once soon counted her as a close friend because she was unrelenting in her encouragement and support for them.
To have known Maryjane was to know encouragement and love.
Maryjane is survived by John Jr., her husband of 58 years; her son John, 3rd (Sheri) of Springdale, Arkansas; twin sons Ralph (Sarah) of Longmont, Colorado, and Brent (Pat) of Spokane, Washington; and son Evan (Leela) of San Diego, California. John and Maryjane have 9 grand children.
A memorial service will be on Friday, June 27 at 10:00 am, at Bethany Church. 21 North Olive St., Alhambra, CA.
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Hey Ralph,
ReplyDeleteMy mom told me about this last week. I am very sorry to hear about it. Your article stated that you don't learn how to bury a parent, so true!! I learned with my dad. I am very happy that I stopped by the house about a year ago and talked with you mom for about an hour. It was nice talking about old times and politics. My prayers are with you, the family, your dad and brothers. Your old pal, b