Helen Jeanette Harris

Helen Jeanette Harris, lovingly known as Jeanette, passed away peacefully at her home in West Des Moines, Iowa, on February 12, 2024. She was surrounded by her devoted family, a testament to the kind of person she was and the impact she had on those around her.

Born on July 1, 1933, in Caribou, Maine, Jeanette was the daughter of Joseph and Flora (Dionne) Dubay. Throughout her life, she found immense joy in simple pleasures. She had an unwavering love for puzzles and spent many cherished hours conquering them.  It was through these seemingly trivial activities that she found solace and a sense of accomplishment.

However, it was her love for her own family that truly defined Jeanette's life. She married the love of her life, Daryl Dean Harris on June 7, 1952 in Collinsville, Connecticut, who stood by her side as a loving husband of 71 years until the very end. Together they built a foundation of love and support that would carry them through all of life's hurdles.

Jeanette was a beacon of strength and kindness, and her absence will be deeply felt by all who knew her. Her unwavering love for her family and her genuine warmth are qualities that will be remembered fondly. She will be remembered by her husband Daryl Dean of West Des Moines; son Michael (Polly) Harris of Des Moines; granddaughters Jessica (Jason) Carey of Earlham and Ashley Harris of DeSoto and great-grandchildren Jacob and Josie Carey.

As we mourn the loss of Jeanette's physical presence, let us also celebrate a life lived to the fullest. She leaves behind cherished memories and an eternal legacy of love. May her spirit continue to guide and inspire us all as we navigate the journey of life without her physical presence. In keeping with Jeanette's wishes, cremation has taken place and no services are planned at this time.