Brenda S. Harris, 82, of De Soto died Dec. 27, 2024, at her home. Mrs. Harris was known as a fiercely independent woman with a sharp wit and an unapologetic attitude. She will be remembered for speaking her mind, standing her ground and teaching those around her the value of resilience and honesty. She loved spending time with her family, and her home often reflected her vibrant personality. Born April 23, 1942, in Corning, Ark., she was the daughter of the late Loyd William Leanard and Gladys M. (Story) Smith.
She was preceded in death by her husband: Albert Dale Harris.
She is survived by three children: Loyd (Terri) Harris of Pacific, Gregory (Tanya) Harris of Mabank, Texas, and Krista (Russell) Sander of De Soto; two siblings: Deborah Story (Steve) Baker of Chaffee and Michael Story of St. Louis; eight grandchildren: Aleatha Harris, Alex (Carrie) Sander, Andy Sander, Mallory (Stefan) DuBois, Natalie Harris, Gregory Harris Jr., Anita (Derek) Hansel and Madison (Nathan) Brown; 13 great-grandchildren: Tyler and Lydia Harris, Michaela and Emily Sander, Bella Gomez-Harris, Oliver and Lorelai Hansel, Liam Harris, Cooper and Hazel Dubois, Ryder Richards and Marshall and Rush Brown; step-grandchildren: William Chase, Meaghan and Bridget Angus, and the Denbows: Shannon, Steven, David, Joshua, Jedediah and Leighanna and their families; and many other family members and friends.
She also was preceded in death by a sister: Marjorie (Leanard) Sansone.
A celebration of life is scheduled from 2-5 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 5, at De Soto Community Center, 400 Boyd St. Arrangements are under the direction of Dietrich-Mothershead Funeral Home in De Soto.