Dr. Jan L. Harris

Jan was born on July 5, 1936 in Richmond, Virginia and grew up in Highland Springs, Virginia. She was preceded in death by her beloved parents, Dorothy Willard and William Henry Harris, Jr. Survivors include her longtime companion and best friend, Elizabeth Hawa, and cousins Dale Vernon, Jackie Bailey, Susan Coltes, Debbie Stidham, Lisa Vanderburg, and Connie Illich.

Jan received her undergraduate degree from Madison College (JMU) and her graduate degrees from Old Dominion University and the College of William and Mary. For 43 years she served in public education in Virginia as teacher, counselor, professor, dean, university administrator and Virginia Department of Education administrator. She was inducted into Kappa Delta Pi and included in Who’s Who in American Education.

Although very humble about it, Jan had a beautiful singing voice. She sang as a child on WRVA Radio; and as an adult she developed a Jazz repertoire, singing at Madison College, Myrtle Beach, and other venues.

Jan was an active member and served on the vestry of St. James’s Episcopal Church. She loved her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Jan has asked that you honor her by performing at least one act of kindness every day of your life and that you strive to reach your full potential based on the gifts God has given you.

A memorial service will be held at a later date, please check back often for updates.