Carrie Earlene Harris, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and cherished friend, passed away peacefully at her home on May 28, 2026, at the age of 83. She was born on September 8, 1942, in Benton, Arkansas at Blakely Hospital. Carrie's life was a beautiful tapestry of love, creativity, and a passion for the world around her.

Carrie was the treasured daughter of Earl James and Elsie Ferguson, who preceded her in death. From a young age, she embraced the joys of rural life, where her adventurous spirit was evident in her fearless endeavors, whether riding horses or calves. This zest for life carried her through Fountain Lake High School, where she graduated in 1960, and later to the University of Arkansas at Little Rock, where she earned her associate degree.

Carrie's professional journey was as varied and vibrant as her spirit. Her career began at the Saline County Tax Assessor's office and later at the Benton Police Department in records management. One of her most fulfilling jobs was working for Mays, Crutcher and Brown in Little Rock as Office Manager. However, it was her entrepreneurial spirit that truly shone when she opened her own business in downtown Benton. Her shop, initially known as Creative Needles, eventually transformed into Mulberry Art and Frame, a reflection of her evolution into a natural-born artist. It was here that Carrie discovered her profound passion for creating art, a pursuit that would bring her joy and fulfillment for many years.

On August 19, 1982, Carrie married the love of her life, AH (Skip) Harris. Together, they shared 43 wonderful years filled with love, laughter, and countless cherished memories. Carrie's family was the center of her world, and she is survived by her devoted spouse, Skip, daughter Carole Powell Belew and husband Shawn of Eureka Springs, son James Kevin Trotter and wife Angela of Benton, Her legacy lives on in her 3 grandchildren and one great-grandchild, who were the light of her life: Shelby Flenniken and husband Sam, Antonio Balzumati and wife Tori and Emily Trotter, and great-grandchild Olympia Balzumati.

Carrie is also survived by her stepsons Nathan Harris, wife Staci of Charlotte and their children Kieran and Kim, and James Harris and wife Robin of Roland and his children Levi and Miriam.

Carrie's interests extended beyond her artistic endeavors. She was an avid gardener, whose green thumb brought vibrant blooms to life, and a voracious reader, who found solace and adventure within the pages of countless books. Her favorite place in the world was Pensacola Beach.

A celebration of Carrie's life will be held on June 3, 2026, at 5:00 PM at Ashby's Funeral Home, located at 108 W. Narroway, Benton. Friends and family are invited to gather to honor and remember a life well-lived and a spirit deeply loved.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the UAMS Palliative Care Clinic staff and the staff of Gentiva Health Services for their compassionate care and support.

Carrie Earlene Harris will be remembered for her boundless creativity, her unwavering love for her family, and her ability to bring beauty into the world. Her memory will forever be cherished in the hearts of those who knew and loved her.

Online guest book at www.ashbyfuneralhome.com