Dana Anne Harris
In Loving Memory of Dana Anne Harris
September 13, 1959 – October 11, 2026
Dana Anne Harris, 67, peacefully passed away on October 11, 2026, after a courageous battle with cancer. Born in New Jersey on September 13, 1959, to the late Bill and Lorraine Stripp, Dana lived a life defined by love, compassion, generosity, and an unwavering devotion to the people she held dear.
Dana attended the University of Florida, proudly embracing her love for the Gators. Go Gators! Life eventually led her to Bakersfield, California, where she began one of her most cherished journeys: motherhood.
Above all else, Dana was a devoted mother to her two sons, Barrett Harris and Austin Harris. They were the center of her world, and there was nothing she wouldn't do for them. Her love was unconditional, her support unwavering, and her willingness to show up for her family knew no limits. Being their mom was one of the greatest joys of her life.
Dana was also a loving wife to William Harris and a proud grandmother to Jaiden Harris, 11, and Madison Harris, 8. Her grandchildren brought her immeasurable happiness, and she treasured the special place they held in her heart. She will be deeply missed by them, as well as by all who were fortunate enough to experience her love.
Dana was, without a doubt, one of the most selfless people you could ever meet. She had a heart that seemed to have no limits and a natural instinct to help anyone in need. Throughout her life, she touched countless people with her kindness, generosity, and compassion, often giving of herself without ever expecting anything in return.
That same caring spirit carried into her career as a neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) nurse. Dana spent her working years doing what she loved: caring for the tiniest and most vulnerable patients and supporting families during some of their most difficult and most hopeful moments. Her compassion made a difference in more lives than she could ever have known.
Outside of her family and career, Dana had a passion for sports and proudly cheered for the Florida Gators and the Carolina Hurricanes. Her favorite place to be, however, was the beach. She loved the peaceful sound of the waves, collecting seashells, and all things mermaids. These simple treasures brought her joy and reflected the beauty she found in the world around her.
Dana also had a special love for dogs. As she makes her way to heaven, we find comfort in imagining her reunited with her beloved best friends, Chance and Roxy, who surely have been waiting to welcome her home.
Dana was preceded in death by her beloved parents, Bill and Lorraine Stripp.
She leaves behind her husband, William Harris; her sons, Barrett Harris and Austin Harris; her daughter-in-law, Ashley Harris; her cherished grandchildren, Jaiden Harris and Madison Harris; her sister, Karen Almond; her brother Billy Stripp; and many beloved cousins, nieces, nephews, and dear friends whose lives were made brighter by knowing her.