Ira T. Harris was born in Hilly, Louisiana on October 18, 1921 and placed in the care of loving parents, the late Ben Franklin and Mary Lou Lockhart Franklin. She was reared in a loving and nurturing home with her siblings who all preceded her in death.

Born to Christian parentage, Ira accepted Christ at the tender age of 11, and was baptized at the Liberty Hill Missionary Baptist Church in Arcadia, Louisiana.

On February 15, 1948 Ira was married to her soul mate, the love of her life, Garland Harris, who preceded her in death.

Relocating to Houston, Texas, Ira united with the Creston Baptist Church where she demonstrated leadership qualities as was evidenced through her participation and assignments in various auxiliaries; teacher, mission, choir, deaconess and Usher Board for 15 years. Her other church affiliations were: Macedonia Baptist Church and Willing Workers Baptist Church. In 1988 as her husband's illness progressed, and wanting to be near their family, the Harris' moved to Bethany, Louisiana. In keep with the Baptist Covenant both united with the New Boggy Baptist Church and Mrs. Harris became an active member of the Usher Board and Deaconess. When her son was called to Pastor the Belcher Chapel Baptist Church, she served there under his leadership until her health failed. Her Christian service consisted of 20 years of teaching God's Word in Sunday School, Mission President, and Deaconess; and 15 years ushering sinners and saints into the house of prayer. She had an affectionate smile and never met a stranger.

God dispatched His angels from Heaven and Ira T. Harris peacefully entered into God's care and eternal rest on Friday, October 13, 2017. Left in God's care to cherish her memory and continue her legacy is devoted and loving son, Rev. John L. Franklin; daughter-in-law, Phyllis M. Franklin; grandsons, Rodney Jackson of Bakersfield, California, Pastor Marcus K. Franklin (Michaelynne) of Keithville, Louisiana, Rev. George B. Franklin (Tia) of Shreveport, Louisiana; 19 great-grandchildren, a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

Rejoicing in eternal rest with her; parents, Ben and Mary Lou Franklin; all of her siblings; her husband, Garland Harris, and grandson, Michael Franklin.