Laura Harris Harrison

Laura Mae Charlene Harris Harrison 72, passed away in Rome, Georgia July 9, 2019. Laura was born August 3, 1946 to Colonel CTB Harris and Marjorie Woodward Harris. Laura‘s paternal grandparents were Irene Tumlin and James Swann Harris. Her maternal grandparents were Lucille Castlebury and John Charles Woodward, founder of Woodward Academy, formerly GMA.

Laura joined her brothers Bud and Jim learning to run and play on their Ben Hill acreage. When Laura was six she moved to Barnesville, Georgia where her father was president of Gordon Military College.

Eva Robinson, Laura’s much loved nurse, came with the family.

After ten years the family relocated to Rome for her father to be the assistant to the president at Shorter College until the Colonel’s retirement. Laura attended Gulf Park College in Mississippi to study art. Her drafting skills were later put to use to restore a historical larger home in the “between the rivers district” in Rome.

Laura married Julian Mark Harrison III. They have a daughter Lauralyn and a son Mark. Laura was very involved in the activities of her grandson Justin, granddaughter Emmelyn and grandson Quint. She was their number one supporter - always encouraging and cheering them on.

Laura had a very active life. She was a licensed insurance agent, a bridal consultant and sales associate at Belk. Laura was an entrepreneur creating, owning and operating several businesses in the Rome area. Laura was activities director at both Riverwood and Winthrop retirement centers. There was never a dull moment when Laura was in charge.

Laura was a member of the Quota International Club, the Rome Junior Service League, Three Rivers Garden Club, Polk church assistant treasurer, member of First Baptist Church of Rome, and Gordon Alumni Advisory Board.

She was active in DIGS (Developing, Independence, Growth and Security, a 501C3 Corp) She was a founding member and served on the Board of Directors of DIGS. Laura worked to develop the choir, art, camera, and dance clubs for special citizens. She helped organize sports activities for DIGS.

Laura used her amazing artistic talent to benefit organizations she worked with. Laura loved being with her children, grandchildren, good movies, art, design and fashion, antiques, swimming, the ocean and laughter. She had a quick sense of humor - never missing an opportunity to share joy.

After a courageous battle against cancer Laura leaves her family and friends to deeply miss her smile, encouragement, hugs and love each and every day.

Survivors include daughter Lauralyn Harrison of Rome; son Mark(Tracy) Harrison of Rome; grandchildren Justin, Emmelyn, Quint, Madeleine and Parker; brother CTB (Massimilla)Harris, Jr of Asheville, NC; brother JSW (Sara)Harris of New London, NH; chosen sister Marcia Karp Rosenfeld of Woodstock, GA; stepsisters Dorothy Mercure of Jonesboro, GA and Susan Daniel of Rome; nieces Marjorie Harris Perry of Roswell, GA; Betsy Harris Swyer of Austin, TX; Dr. Katrina Harris Taylor of Chester,VT; Liz Mercure of Atlanta, GA; nephews Cliff Harris of Atlanta, GA ; Mike Mercure of Atlanta, GA.

Predeceased by niece Becca Harris; Stepmother Ruth Beckham Daniel Harris.

Laura’s positive attitude touched her numerous family members and friends. Donations may be made to DIGS of Rome, GA.

A private family service will be held.