Mary Petrillose Harris

The family of Mary Petrillose Harris are saddened to report her death on August 22nd, 2025 at Alexian Village, Signal Mountain, TN at the venerable age of 114.

Mary was born in Ithaca, NY on May 13th, 1911.  She and her husband, J. Richard ("Dick") Harris, now deceased, were longtime residents of Cortland, NY where together they build a highly successful drycleaning chain, Harris Cleaners, and a large dairy farm operation, Fairview Farms. Over the years Mary also became a very talented and prolific artist in oils and porcelain painting and a master seamstress capable of sewing perfectly fitted dresses from sight.  In more recent years her beautiful hand sewn quilts were given to each member of the family and are treasured keepsakes.

Mary and Dick were the much beloved parents of two daughters, Dixie Lee Billingsley of Atlanta, GA and Concetta ("Connie") Pitcher of Huntsville, AL.  Mary was always happiest when surrounded by her family that grew over the years to include five grandchildren, 16 great-grandchildren, and one great-great-grandchild of all ages.  She was recognized and revered as the family matriarch who was kept abreast of all family doings and events.  Her quiet wisdom, patience, and incisive humor will be greatly missed at future family gatherings as will her uncanny ability to win more than her fair share of family games.

Mary will be laid to rest beside her beloved husband at Forest Hill Memorial Park, Lexington, NC on Saturday, August 30 in a final gathering of her beloved family.