Kay Frances Harris

Kay F. Harris was born on June 27, 1942, in Berwind, West Virginia to Ocie and Sarah Bradford. She was the sixth child of eight children. Her early education took place in Berwind at Kerr Grade School. She went on to attend Excelsior High School, graduating in 1960. The Bradford family attended Rose of Sharon Baptist Church in Berwind, where Kay was baptized at an early age. While in high school, Kay was offered a scholarship to college but instead chose to strike out on her own, relocating to Chicago. After several years, her mother and three of her siblings joined her in Chicago. It was in Chicago that she met her future husband, John G. Harris. They married on August 14, 1966, and remained devoted to each other until her death. In her own words, she described John as a blessing that God sent her. John and Kay raised two children together, Vincent and Chelsea. She was proud of every milestone and accomplishment these two made. A smile always graced her face when talking about her children. Kay spent the majority of her career employed at Northwestern Memorial Hospital. She worked there for over 30 years. She successfully completed the hospital’s Core Management Program which led to her eventual promotion to a manager in the Pathology department. Ever the learner, Kay took a variety of classes throughout her life, all with eth goal of advancing her career. She received a certificate of achievement from Jones Commercial Evening School. She took classes at Cook County Hospital, with a focus on laboratory technology. She also took lunchtime classes offered by Northwestern University and classes at Kennedy King college in a variety of subjects. Kay was a dedicated and faithful member at Parkway Garden Church. She served at Parkway Garden Church in a variety of positions. She worked as both an Usher and Secretary. After completing a Certificate of Completion in Deacon Training, she faithfully served as a Deacon until failing health caused her to no longer be able to attend services. Kay faced each health challenge with steadfast resolve and dignity. On January 28, 2026, Kay peacefully transitioned from labor to reward when God called her home. Kay is preceded in death by her parents, Ocie and Sarah Bradford, her beloved son, Vincent Brown and six of her siblings – Cleophus, Earnestine, Ocie Mae, Willis, Rocile and Jerry Lee. Kay leaves to cherish her memory, her devoted husband, John Harris; her daughter Chelsea (Shawn) and daughter-in-law Kathy; her grandchildren Cherise (Ed) Easley, Kayla Brown, Jonathan Dervin and Cameron Dervin; great-grandchildren, Stephawn, Brooklyn and Lennix; sister Katherine Bradford; sister-in-laws: Emma Harris, Gracie Collins (Lozie), Mary Markham (Otho) and Carolyn Bowen; brother-in-laws Willis (Kathy) and Lawrence Harris, Jr. (Inez); lifelong friends Earlene Sharkey and John Burnett; best friend Sharon Tate; and neighbors turned friends Yvonne Jackson, Bessola Johnson and Ruth Watson; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends who will forever hold her in their heart. Kay’s kindness, her generous spirit, and the wisdom she shared so freely touched every life she encountered. Her presence left a lasting imprint on all who had the privilege of knowing her.

Kay Frances Harris

June 27, 1942 - January 28, 2026