Gloria Harrison, 84, of Van Buren, Arkansas, passed away peacefully on November 14, 2024 with her family surrounding her. Born on June 2, 1940, Gloria lived a life full of love, accomplishments, and devotion to her family and community.
A proud and avid Razorback fan, Gloria found immense joy in cheering for her favorite team and celebrating their triumphs. Above all, her greatest pride was her family. She adored her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, attending their activities and milestones with unwavering love and enthusiasm.
Gloria was a trailblazer in her career, breaking barriers as the first female manager at Whirlpool in Fort Smith, paving the way for others with her determination and leadership. She also found great joy and fulfillment as a member of the Chi Sigma Sorority, cherishing the friendships she built with the wonderful ladies of the group. Together, they shared countless social events and worked to give back to the community, a cause Gloria held close to her heart.
Gloria is survived by her children, Teresa Quillman (Larry), Bill Ward, and Michele Burgess; two brothers, Glenn Martin and Curtis Fritts; her cherished grandchildren, Amber Quillman, Alexis Sterling (Taylor), and Cody Quillman (Sarah), Sarah Robbins (Josh), Jimmy Ward (Lindsey) and her legacy continues through her beloved great-grandchildren, Peyton Sterling, Roman Sterling, Luxleigh Sterling, Hadley Quillman, Rhett Quillman, Maverick Ward, Mason Ward, and Lennox Ward.
In addition to her family, Gloria leaves behind her lifelong best friend, Linda Fletcher, who was by her side through life’s many joys and challenges. Their bond was one of laughter, loyalty, and love they were there for one another as friends through each stage of life. She also leaves behind many amazing nieces and nephews, all of whom held a special place in her heart and brought her immense pride and joy.
She was preceded in death by her father, Marion Fritts; her mother, Emma Clopton; stepfather, Henry Clopton; son in-law, David Burgess and her loving husband of 19 years, Jess Harrison.
Gloria’s love, kindness, and enduring spirit will forever be remembered by her family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing her.
A celebration of her life will be held 10 a.m., Wednesday, November 20 at Edward Funeral Home Chapel in Fort Smith, where loved ones will gather to honor the extraordinary woman she was. Visitation will begin at 9 a.m. on Wednesday before the service. Burial will be at the Fort Smith National Cemetery under the direction of McConnell Funeral Home of Greenwood.
Pallbearers will be Cody Quillman, Taylor Sterling, Peyton Sterling, Ryan Sterling, Josh Robbins and Steve Bartsch.
To share a memory or leave a message for the family, please visit www.mcconnellfh.com.
