Janet Tharis (Martin) Harris

Janet Tharis (Martin) Harris, born November 29, 1939, in Darin, Missouri, passed away April 30, 2026, in Owensville, Missouri, at the age of eighty-six years. Janet attended Cage Schoolhouse. At a young age, she accepted Christ and remained devoted to her faith throughout her life. She was a longtime member of Salem First Christian Church, where she lovingly worked in the nursery for many years. On February 15, 1963, Janet married Jack Harris, and together they built a life centered on family, raising four daughters. She deeply cherished her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, and she had a special way of embracing her daughters’ friends as if they were her own. Janet worked at International Shoe Factory and Barards Lingerie in her early years. She later earned her real estate license and went on to work as an insurance agent. She was passionate about politics and was actively involved as a union leader with the ILGWU. In her free time, she found joy in the simple pleasures of life; spending time at the river, tending to her flower garden, sewing (including making clothing for children), and being a proud member of the Order of the Eastern Star. Janet is survived by her loving daughters: Tami Short and Marlin Woods of Rolla, MO, Sarah Goser and husband Eric of Rolla, MO, and Cindy Waterman and husband Jim of Rolla, MO; brother: Richard Martin and wife Nadine of Salem, MO; sister-in-law: Mary Lois Harris of Salem, MO; grandchildren: Abigail Barton, Savannah Short and Kris Kvenvold, Matthew Short and wife Maranda, Audrey Short, Theodore Short, Hannah Elsayegh and husband Amr, Drew Goser, Dane Goser and wife Melissa, Dalton Goser and wife Kristina, Delanie Goser and fiancé Anthony Figureoa, Taylor Juarez and husband Omar, and Madison Waterman; thirteen great-grandchildren; as well as several nieces, nephews, other relatives, and dear friends. Preceding her in death were her husband: Jack Harris; daughter: Laura Harris; grandsons: Logan and Zachary Barton; parents: Audrey Ondo and Bernadine (Smith) Martin; brother: Dennis Martin and wife Loretta; and brothers-in-law: Earl, Jim, and Norman Harris. Janet will be remembered for her deep love of family, her strong faith, her generous spirit, and the lasting impact she made on all who knew her. Memorial Contributions may be made in memory of Janet and left with Wilson Mortuary. Memorial Envelopes will be available. Condolences may be left online at www.wilsonmortuary.com

Janet Tharis (Martin) Harris

November 29, 1939 - April 30, 2026