Gloria Anne Jackson Harries of Umatilla died on April 17, 2021 at the age of 86.
She was born on March 6, 1935 in Portland to Ruth and Clarence Jackson.
Shortly after her birth, the family moved to Seattle. While in Seattle, Gloria became the big sister of Jimmy, Billee, Susan and Danny. Gloria had a special love and talent for the visual arts. She attended classes at Cornish College of the Arts in Seattle while in secondary school.
In 1948, the family moved to Sunnyside, Wash. Here, Gloria attended high school. She met John W. Harries Jr., and they were married in Sunnyside in 1952.
Gloria moved with her new husband, who was in the U.S. Navy, to Whidbey Island, Wash. In the years that followed, Gloria and John had six children: Jess and Shelley, born at Fort Lawton, Seattle, Wash.; Teresa, born in Othello, Wash.; Lee, born in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho; Eric, born in Sunnyside, Wash.; and Paul, born in Richland, Wash.
During these years, Gloria, a stay-at-home mom, began developing her sewing skills that led her to the art of quilting. Gloria’s beautiful quilts supplied joy and comfort to many, as they were given as generous gifts. These beautiful, creative quilts have been displayed throughout the Pacific Northwest, as well as being published in several quilting magazines. Gloria shared her skill and passion with many women as she taught quilting classes in the Yakima Valley.
Gloria is survived by her sisters, Billee Connelly and Susan Rose; one brother, James Jackson; her six children, Jess Harries, Shelley Harris, Teresa Harris, Lee Harries, Eric Harries and Paul Harries; nine grandchildren; and 13 great grandchildren.
Preceding Gloria in death is her husband, John W. Harries Jr.; her parents, Ruth and Clarence Jackson; and her youngest brother, Danny Jackson.
A private family graveside service will be held at Grandview Cemetery.
Flowers can be sent in care of Teresa Harris, 192 Rio Senda St., Umatilla, Ore., 97882.
Please leave an online condolence at burnsmortuaryhermiston.com.
Burns Mortuary of Hermiston is taking care of arrangements.
