Virginia Lea Harris

Virginia Lea Harris, born October 2, 1929, in Hill City, KS, entered into our Lord’s presence on April 1, 2026, in Lawrence, KS. Known as “Ginny” she led a life marked by dedication to her family as a loving wife, devoted mother and kind hearted grandmother.

Virginia graduated from Rockford High School in Colorado. She was an avid reader, and an advanced student in her classes. She married William (Bill) Harris on October 24, 1946. They were married 70 wonderful years.

She was a volunteer for the Red Cross and taught English to foreign students at Kansas University. She enjoyed writing poetry and her love for music led her to become an accomplished pianist and organist.

Following the death of her son, Tim, in 1986, she became very active with American Gold Star Mothers, Inc.

Virginia is survived by 7 children: Tom, Terry, Therese, Toni, Tammy (Earl), Trina, and Trudi (Eddie), 20 grandchildren, numerous great grandchildren and great great grandchildren. She was also survived by her sister, Bessie Jo Owen.

She was preceded in death by her husband, William T. Harris, a son, Timothy Harris, her parents, Fred C. Hoff, and Ruth (Morris) Hoff, and her brother, Fred M. Hoff.

Virginia will always be remembered by her tender love, her hugs, and her beautiful piano playing.

Funeral service will be held at 11:00 a.m., Thursday, April 16, 2026, at Warren-McElwain Mortuary in Lawrence. Burial will be held at 1:30 p.m., Thursday, April 16, 2026, at Leavenworth National Cemetery. The rosary will be recited at 6:00 p.m. on Wednesday, April 15, 2026, at Warren-McElwain Mortuary with visitation from 6:30 p.m. until 7:30 p.m.

The family suggests memorial contributions to the Gold Star Mothers Department of Kansas and may be sent in care of the Warren-McElwain Mortuary.