Druella "Dru" Mae (Harris) Colbert

Born on July 11, 1933, in Claiborne County, Tennessee, she was the youngest of three children born to Clarence and Grace (Seal) Harris. Raised primarily in Knoxville, TN, Druella graduated from Knoxville High School in 1950 and later took business courses before moving to Washington, D.C. during the Korean War.

It was in Washington, D.C. where she met Donald K. Colbert, who was serving in the U.S. Navy. They married in 1956 and raised four children while living in Washington, Terre Haute and Kokomo, Indiana as well as Chicago, Illinois.

Druella was an avid reader with an endless curiosity. Her love of books was matched only by her deep compassion for animals—especially the many strays who always seemed to find their way to her. Though she never aligned with one particular church, Druella’s faith was steady. She sought God in scripture, music, nature, and prayer. Above all, she was a thinker, a seeker, and a soul who reflected deeply on life’s mysteries.

She was a cherished mother and "Mamaw," and a friend to all of her children’s friends and also her neighbors. Her presence will be missed beyond measure.

She was preceded in death by her beloved son, George Bradley Colbert.

Druella is survived by her children: Chris (Melissa) Colbert of Terre Haute; Gretchen (Joe) Brooks of Fishers; and Allison (Jeff Eichelberger) Colbert of Indianapolis; along with several grandchildren and great-grandchildren, including Kristin (Joey) Newell and their son Ford of Las Vegas, NV; Morgan Colbert and her son Brighton Sanders of Terre Haute, IN; Taylor Colbert (Josh) of Redondo Beach CA, Andrew (Allison) Colbert of Charlotte, NC; sister, Mary Ruth Johnson, Knoxville, TN.

The family would like to extend heartfelt thanks to the compassionate professionals at Community North Hospital/Medical A for the dignity and respect they showed Druella in her final days.

A private burial service will be held on May 31, 2025 at Berry Highland Memorial Cemetery, Knoxville Tennessee. In lieu of flowers, the family encourages donations to a local animal rescue or a charity of your choice.