Esta (Johnson) Harris

Esta Harris, 91, passed away at midnight on Sunday, February 16, 2025, at Fairfield Senior Living and Rehabilitation Center.  She was born on December 11, 1933, in Stanley, Indiana to Rev. Carl and Madolin (Beckwith) Johnson.   After attending a one-room schoolhouse for part of her elementary schooling, Esta finished her education in Lynnville, Indiana, where she was proud to be a cheerleader for the Lynnville Lindys all four years of high school.   She graduated as the Salutatorian of her class in 1951.

One of her earliest careers was as a switchboard telephone operator.  Yes, she was one of those who would say “Number, please” as they prepared to connect the call.  Later, she worked at Whirlpool Corporation in Evansville, Indiana, before moving to Fairfield and starting to work at Airtex Products.  She retired from Airtex in 1998 after approximately 30 years of service.  In 1977, Esta married Gayle Harris, and they enjoyed many years together traveling around the country to visit family and see many historical sites.  However, their greatest joy was in spending time with their children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.    They were married for 46 years until Gayle passed in 2023. 

Esta is survived by the following:  daughters Donna Alexander of Evansville, Indiana; and Carla Dunahay of Fairfield; Gayle’s daughter, Sherrie (Roger) Turpin of Albion; and son, Richard (Susan) Harris of Wichita, Kansas.  Surviving are also three grandchildren:  Casey (Dan) Thorbeck and David (Laura) Alexander, both of Evansville; and Matthew Dunahay of Fairfield, as well as five grandchildren of Gayle’s.   In addition, Esta is survived by four great-grandchildren, as well as 11 of Gayle’s.   She is also survived by two brothers, Gary (Anita) Johnson and Terry (Marie) Johnson of California.  Esta was preceded in death by her parents, husband Gayle, and brother Ernie Johnson.

A memorial service will be held on March 4, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at the Johnson and Vaughn Funeral Home, with burial of ashes to follow in Maple Hill Cemetery.  A visitation will be held from 10:00 a.m. until the time of service at the funeral home.

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