Constance Harris

Constance W. Harris, 88, of Cape Girardeau died Monday, Sept. 14, 2009, at Monticello House in Jackson.

She was born Oct. 29, 1920, in Kankakee, Ill., daughter of Clinton N. and Celia Butler Hartley. She and Charles Harris were married Oct. 29, 1938, in Kentucky. He died June 3, 1983.

She was a devoted wife and was very supportive of her husband's endeavors and contributions to the community.

Constance worked at Kassel Studio several years, and was also involved in Tanksley Trucking and Harris Truck and Trailer.

She was an avid gardener, loved writing, was a founding member of Cape County Writers Guild, was a Girl Scout leader, member of Centenary United Methodist Church, and served on many school and church committees when the daughters were young. She also had a special love of music and literature and enjoyed reading in her later years.

Constance had been in declining health for years.

Survivors include three daughters, Patricia Leavell of Dallas, Marsha (Ron) Clark of Cape Girardeau, Charlotte Nenninger of Cape Girardeau; a sister-in-law, Laverne Hartley of Cape Girardeau; six grandchildren, Mary P. Cochran of Dallas, Paul D. Pettigrew of Plano, Texas, Don S. Godwin Jr. of New York, Kathryn A. Vangilder of Cape Girardeau, Todd C. Nenninger of Los Angeles, Constance O. Nenninger of Kansas City, Kan.; two great-grandchildren, Charles W. Pettigrew and Claire A. Pettigrew of Plano, Texas; a nephew, Tom H. Gerhardt of Onekama, Mich.; and a niece, Mary K. Welker of Cape Girardeau.

She was preceded in death by her parents, husband and a brother, Dale Hartley.

The funeral will be at 11 a.m. today at Ford and Sons Mount Auburn Funeral Home, with the Rev. Jeff Long officiating. A private burial for the family only will follow at Cape County Memorial Park in Cape Girardeau.

Memorial contributions may be given to Alzheimer's Association, American Heart Association, or Community Counseling Center.

Online condolences may be made at www.fordandsonsfuneralhome.com.