Mary Lou Harris

Mary Lou Martin Harris, a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, passed away on February 17, 2025, at the age of 92 in San Diego, California. Her life was defined by resilience, compassion, and an unwavering commitment to family, community, and service.

Born in Boston, Massachusetts, to Reginald Martin and Mary Galloway Martin, Mary Lou’s childhood was shaped by her parents' work as Salvation Army Officers. Her early years in New York City, the Bronx, and later in San Francisco, had a profound impact on her, instilling a deep sense of empathy and understanding that guided her throughout her life. These experiences fostered her lifelong commitment to kindness, acceptance, and service. She developed a strong social awareness, particularly toward those from different backgrounds, which became the foundation of both her personal and professional endeavors.

After graduating from high school in San Francisco in 1950, Mary Lou attended Western Salvation Army College. Her adventurous spirit soon led her to Hawaii, where she worked at the camera shop inside the Royal Hawaiian Hotel. It was there that she met Navy serviceman Frederick Harris, and their romance blossomed into a lifelong partnership. They married in 1953 in San Francisco and returned to Honolulu for their first year of marriage. While in Honolulu, Mary Lou also dabbled in modeling, appearing with her newborn daughter Carole in an advertisement for the Hawaiian Telephone Company and gracing the cover of US Lady magazine, a publication for military spouses. After their time in Hawaii, they settled in San Diego, Fred’s hometown, where they built a loving home and raised their three children: Carole, Randal, and James.

Once her children were in school, Mary Lou returned to college at San Diego State University, earning a bachelor’s degree in Psychology in 1975 and a Master of Science in Rehabilitation Counseling in 1977, graduating with honors.

Mary Lou’s professional career spanned nearly two decades, focusing on rehabilitation counseling, disability management, and workplace inclusivity. She was dedicated to helping individuals with disabilities overcome employment barriers and drive systemic change. Beginning as Employee Rehabilitation Coordinator at UC San Diego, she worked with departments to implement inclusive practices. As Managing Director of Vocational Services at Sharp Memorial Hospital, she expanded vocational rehabilitation programs. Later, as Managing Partner of WorkAble Solutions, she helped organizations improve accessibility. Recognized as a leader, Mary Lou was known for her innovative solutions and commitment to equal opportunities.

Mary Lou also made a lasting impact as an educator, serving as an adjunct faculty member in the Rehabilitation Counseling Program at San Diego State University, where she mentored the next generation of counselors. Her contributions to disability management and rehabilitation counseling were widely recognized, with colleagues and clients alike describing her as both a trailblazer and a compassionate advocate.

Her philanthropic efforts were just as meaningful as her professional achievements. Mary Lou dedicated much of her time to several organizations, including the Thursday Club, Makua, and the Junior League of San Diego, where she provided leadership and support to help strengthen the community.

A woman of boundless energy, Mary Lou embraced life fully. An avid tennis player, she served as the President of the Board of Directors at the Peninsula Tennis Club and continued competing in matches and tournaments well into her 80s, often outplaying much younger opponents. She also found joy basking in the sun, whether on a tennis court, at the beach, at the San Diego Yacht Club, or in her backyard. Mary Lou delighted in sharing her musical talents, often entertaining family and friends on the piano. She loved exploring new places, from family camping trips and weekend getaways to the family cabin in Julian, to cross-country road trips with her husband, Fred. A voracious reader, she enjoyed getting lost in a good book and would often pass along her favorites to others. Her enthusiasm for nature, fitness, and healthy living inspired others to embrace life’s simple joys and live well.

Mary Lou’s family was her greatest pride. She is survived by her children, Carole and James; her grandchildren, Melissa, Christopher, Colin, Cayla, Malinalli, Frederick, Fiona, and Malia; and her great-grandchildren, Logan, Avery, and Kayce. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Fred, and her son, Randal.

Those who knew Mary Lou described her as a force of nature—a beacon of strength, resilience, and authenticity. Her legacy of love, determination, and service will continue to inspire all who were fortunate enough to know her.

An "open house" celebration of life will be held on Saturday, April 5, 2025, from 1-4 pm at the home of Mary Lou Harris, 540 Savoy Street, San Diego, CA 92106, to honor her remarkable journey. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests that donations be made to the Salvation Army or a charity of your choice in Mary Lou’s memory.