Julia Hammond Harris

Julia Hammond Harris quietly went to sleep in Jesus\u0027s care on Saturday morning, November 3, 2012 at home. She was born in Downs, Alabama to Louis and Lila Harris on November 27, 1915. Julia loved living life; she did so with joy, laughter and a quick step. She attributed her long life to happiness of heart, love for the Lord, wonderful family and friends and staying active in a variety of athletic endeavors. Her passion for dancing, horseback riding, tennis, swimming, hiking/walking and golf kept her active into her nineties. On her 94th birthday she was sitting tall in the saddle on Pretty Lady, a paint-mare. Julia shared her childhood with her siblings Louis, Clara Mae and William. She recited many happy stories of their childhood adventures growing up in Alabama. Wanting to travel and see the world she left home at age 17 for Chicago, IL where she worked as a secretary for the manager of a professional medical building. Soon she learned that being a waitress would double her income so she began working at the restaurant on top of her building. Next, the 1939 New York World\u0027s Fair was her employer and then onto California in 1942 to work for the McDonnell Douglas Aircraft Plant. Her first work at the aircraft facility was as a "Lady Riveter" on the SPD Bomber. After World War II ended she continued at McDonnell Douglas working as an A-Planner/Draftsman (drawing plans and then inspecting the work in the shop) within the Engineering Department. Julia was presented many achievement awards for her excellent work and retired after 31 years. For many years she enjoyed traveling both with family and friends. She was a Presbyterian by faith and was active in the church throughout her life. Julia moved to Sedona, AZ in 1987 and lived in the Sedona Shadows Mobile Home Community for 23 years. The past two years she lived in Flagstaff and Camp Verde. Courage and tenacity most defined Julia\u0027s last four years as she bravely recovered from injurious falls and regained her mobility repeatedly. She is survived by her loving nephews and niece; Bill Harris (Patricia), Marguerite Soper (Tony), Louis Harris, Larry Harris (Paula) and Randy Harris (Becky); many great and great-great nieces and nephews. She is also survived by adopted family members Gary Oakes (Dian) and Kathleen Hilbers; and wonderful friends. Julia requested that special appreciation be expressed to her physician, Dr. Kevin Wilson, for his enduring care of her through the past twenty years. A memorial service will be held for her on Sunday, November 11, 2012 at 3:00pm in the Sedona Shadows Club House. Her final resting place will be home in Alabama. An online guestbook is available to sign at www.westcottfuneralhome.com