Joann Lawrence Woods Harris

Joann Lawrence Woods Harris, 89, of Kirksey, KY, died Monday, June 3^rd, 2024, at her childhood home. She was born February 7, 1935, to the late Claude and Brooks Tucker Lawrence. 

Joann graduated from Kirksey High School where she was a cheerleader and an excellent student. After graduation from high school, she worked at Murray State University as a secretary in the administrative staff department. Joann continued her education and received a Bachelor of Science of business from Murray State University in 1966. 

Joann taught Business at Calloway County High School and known to her students as Mrs. Woods. She was proud of her students being recognized at the state level. She retired from Shelby County, TN as an adult education teacher.

She was a lifetime learner, taking classes in various subjects. Her passion was genealogy research, especially her Tucker/Lawrence lineage. 

In addition to her parents, she was proceeded in death by a stillborn son, Gene David Woods; her husband, Rex Harris; brother, Harold Lawrence; sisters, Patsy Lawrence Miller, and Leona Lawrence; her grandson, James F. Williams IV; and son-in-law, Alan Robertson. 

Joann is survived by two daughters, Lana Woods Williams, and husband Tripp, of Murray, Ky; Lawren Woods Minor and husband John, of Kirksey, Ky; Two grandchildren, Sara Brooks Williams Valenti and husband Michael, of Murray, Ky; Anna Brooks Robertson and fiancé Mark McClain, of Memphis, TN; and one great grandson, Brooks M. Valenti. She is also survived by several nieces and nephews. 

Joann was a lifelong member of the Church of Christ. Per her request, a private burial will be at Tucker Family Cemetery in Kirksey, Ky. 

          Expressions of sympathy may be made to Tucker Cemetery, c/o Sabrina Karraker, 1014 Crossland Road, Murray, Kentucky 42071.

          Online condolences can be made at, www.jhchurchill.com