Dorothy M. Harris

Dorothy Mae Artis-Harris was born on February 2, 1935, in Gregory, Arkansas to (Deacon) James “Henry” and Mosella Artis, Sr. She graduated from Gregory High School and later moved to St. Louis, Missouri, and then to Jackson, Michigan. Dorothy had a strong work ethic and was committed to her family and her job, being sure to provide for her children in every way possible. She diligently worked for many years as a fork lift operator at Wolverine Technologies (CertainTeed) in Jackson, MI, receiving a “Perfect Attendance” award each year until she retired. Dorothy was a sports enthusiast who loved to watch every sport, but especially loved the Detroit Tigers. She was also a member of New Macedonia Baptist Church from 2004 until her passing, where she was a dedicated member of the Mother’s Board. Dorothy was called home to be with the Lord on the evening of June 23, 2016. She was preceded in death by her parents, Mosella and James Artis, Sr.; her loving companion, Rovola “Bo” Rowe; and her siblings James Artis, Jr. and Jattie Weathers. She is survived by a special aunt, Searcy Sipes of St. Louis, MO, and six siblings – Ruby Brown, John (Cheryl) Artis, Harold (Barbara) Artis, and Charles Artis of Lansing, MI; Fred Artis of Battle Creek, MI; and Willie Chatman of Charlotte, NC. Dorothy is also survived by her eight children – Ellen White, Linda Harris-Evans, and Brenda (Bennie) Gibson of Lansing, MI; Annette Artis of St. Louis, MO; Larry Artis of Jackson, MI; Sherry (Frederick) Harris-Gray of Fort Worth, TX; Donna Stanley of Waco, TX; and Ronald “Ronnie” Harris of Brooksville, FL. She also leaves behind 16 grandchildren, 11 great grandchildren, 4 great-great grandchildren, and a host of nieces, nephews, church family members, and friends. The visitation will be held at Patience-Montgomery Funeral Home, 406 First St., Jackson, MI on Wednesday, June 29, 4-8PM, and Homegoing service will be held at 12PM at Lily Missionary Baptist Church, 1117 W.G. Wade Drive, Jackson, MI, with Family Hour from 11AM-12PM on Thursday, June 30, 2016.