Hattie Harris

Hattie Harris, 98, of Wilmore, Kentucky, passed away peacefully, leaving behind a legacy of love, strength, and unwavering devotion to her family. She was born on June 22, 1927, in Irvine, Kentucky, to the late Monie Johnson Arvin and Andrew Jonas Arvin.

Hattie was the beloved wife of the late Alvin Harris, with whom she shared 66 years of marriage. Together, they raised seven children: Kenneth Harris; Marie (Larry) Taylor; Brenda (Hal) Lafavers; Donna Bruner; Arlene (Thomas) Grimes; Alvin Ray Harris & Randy Harris.

A strong and resilient mountain woman, Hattie learned the importance of family at an early age following the loss of her mother at just five years old. Alongside her two sisters, she helped care for her younger brother—an experience that shaped her lifelong role as a caregiver and nurturer. She remained deeply proud of her Eastern Kentucky roots and often shared cherished stories of her childhood.

Hattie was known for her joyful spirit, loving heart, and unforgettable sense of humor. When asked how she felt, she would often reply with a smile, “With my fingers,” a phrase she continued to share even in her final days. She never missed an opportunity to tell those around her that she loved them.

Affectionately known as “Granny,” Hattie was the matriarch of a large and devoted family. She is survived by her 15 grandchildren. She was preceded in death by 4 grandchildren.

Hattie was also blessed with over 28 great-grandchildren and 26 great-great-grandchildren, all of whom she loved dearly. In addition, she is survived by several step-grandchildren & great-grandchildren.

She found joy in life’s simple pleasures—tending her garden, canning vegetables, sewing, and crocheting. Her home was always filled with warmth, especially during her well-known Sunday breakfasts, where family gathered to share food, laughter, and love.

A longtime resident of Wilmore, Hattie devoted her life to caring for others—her family, her friends, and anyone in need of kindness. In addition to her children and extended family, she is survived by her sister-in-law, Nancy Arvin, as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

Hattie will be remembered for her strength, humility, humor, and generous spirit, and for the deep love she gave so freely. Her legacy will live on in the many lives she touched.

Visitation will be held from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. on Tuesday, March 24, at Hager & Cundiff Funeral Home in Nicholasville, Kentucky. Additional visitation will take place from 11:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. prior to the funeral service, which will begin at 12:30 pm.

Pallbearers: Randy Harris, Tim Taylor, Ray Harris, Bryce Lafavers, Charles Berryman, Dennis Frederick. Honorary Pallbearers: Alvin Ray Harris, Thomas Grimes, Larry Taylor, Dana Arvin, Daniel Harris, Kevin Harris, Paula Miller, Kandice Durbin, Kim Taylor, Camisha Noble, Melissa Berryman, Mason Berryman, Parker Berryman, Aaron Bruner,, Crystal Kunglal. and Amanda Harris Reed.

 This obituary was lovingly submitted by the family. “Where a beautiful soul has been, there is a trail of beautiful memories.” All arrangements are under the careful direction of Hager & Cundiff Funeral Home and we would like to express our deepest sympathy to the Harris family and friends.