Thelma Lois Harris

Thelma Lois “Lois” Harris, lovingly known to her family as “Little Granny,” passed away surrounded by love, leaving behind a legacy of faith, family, and devotion.

Born to the late Willie Robert and Jennie Lee Gay, Lois grew up with a strong sense of family and hard work that carried throughout her life. 

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Joe Henry Harris; her brothers, Willie Earl Gay, William Lee Gay, Horace Gay and J.L. Gay; her sister, Louise Kent; and her children, Barbara Jo Harris, Johnny H. Harris, Bryan Keith Harris, Diane Spiva, Ruth Harris, and Thomas E. Harris.

Lois was a devoted mother, homemaker, and gardener whose greatest joy was her family. She was well known for her hospitality, her good old-fashioned country meals, and her famous homemade chocolate cake that everyone near and far wanted to taste. Whether shelling peas, canning tomatoes, or keeping her freezer full, she showed her love through food. Cooking was her language of care, and every meal she prepared was a reflection of her generous heart.

She is survived by her brothers, George (Diane) Gay and R.L. (Wanda) Gay; her daughters, Margaret (Coyle) Mayo and Delois “Dee” Harris; daughter in laws, Irene Harris and Christal Harris and a large, loving family of grandchildren: Matt Hunt, Mark Hunt, Stephanie Spiva, Kim (Trey) Timmons, Melanie (Kevin) Cardwell, Craig (Naomi) Harris, Trey (Belinda) Spiva, Michael (Brandy) Langford, Chris (Dawn) Harris, Jason (Lacie) Mayo, Jeremy (Sonya) Millirons, Josh Millirons, Joey Wilkinson, Kyle Wilkinson, Bryan K. Harris II, Brandon Harris, Tyler (Emily) Harris, Justin (Perihan) Harris, Jessica Wilkinson and Jacob Harris. She was also blessed with 41 great-grandchildren and 27 great-great-grandchildren, each of whom brought joy to her life and carry forward her memory.

Lois—“Little Granny”—was the heart of her family. Her warmth, strength, and love will be remembered in every story told, every recipe shared, and every gathering around the family table.

Funeral services will be 11A.M., Tuesday, August 26, 2025 at Marianna Chapel Funeral Home with Chaplain Gino Mayo officiating. Interment will follow in Vickery Cemetery. 

The family will receive friends for a time of fellowship from 10 A.M. until the time of service at Marianna Chapel Funeral Home. 

Those serving as pallbearers include: Tyler Harris, Keaton Spiva, Jake Mayo, Joey Wilkinson, Brandon Harris and Jeremy Hunt. 

The family extends their heartfelt thank you to Emerald Coast Hospice for their care, compassion, and support.

Funeral arrangements are entrusted to the Lambe Family at Marianna Chapel Funeral Home. 

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