Carolyn A. “Carley” Harris, 91, with her family by her side, died at 11:38 p.m. Wednesday, April 16, 2025 at San Gabriel Memory Care in Godfrey.
Born February 13, 1934 in Oakland, IL, she was the daughter of Dr. Reuben Allen and Helen Gertrude (Smith) Barker. Her first husband was Leo Willis, father of her children.
Carley began her floral design career with Alton Floral Company when she married Leo in 1953. She then worked for several floral shops over the years.
She married William Harris on January 11, 1960 in East Alton. He preceded her in death.
Surviving are a daughter, Kimberly Willis of Godfrey, a son, Reuben Willis (Theresa) of Godfrey, and three beloved grandchildren, Emily (Alex), Shannon Rose, and Alexander as well as several nieces and nephews. She is also survived by special friends, too many to name, including Janet, Mickey, Harold and Robb, who held a special place in her life and heart.
Carley loved gardening and had, at one time, 200 rose bushes. She had a special love for animals. In her youth, she was known as the “Little girl on the horse” (Captain Midnight) when she lived on State Street. As a friend said, she left us with wonderful memories, so many of them humorous, so many of them providing examples of how we should treat one another too. We will miss her quick wit and her incredible generosity.
Along with her parents and husband, she was preceded in death by two brothers, Dale Barker and Jimmy Barker.
Visitation will be from 10:00 a.m. until time of memorial service at 12:00 noon Saturday, May 10, 2025 at Gent Funeral Home in Alton followed by a celebration of life at Tony’s Ranch House in Godfrey.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to a local animal shelter or a memorial of your choice.
Online guestbook and information may be found at www.gentfuneralhome.com.
