Mary Carter Harris

Mary Magdalene Rutherford Carter Harris, age 89, passed away peacefully at Christian Care Health Center in Corbin, Kentucky on March 7, 2025. She was born on March 21, 1936, in Big Stone Gap Virginia to the late John and Leona Isom Rutherford. Mary was a graduate of the class of ’55 from Big Stone Gap High School. She later moved to Dayton, Ohio where she attended and graduated from Sinclair College and University of Dayton. She was married to the love of her life, Ward Carter for 29 years, who preceded her in death. Mary worked as an accountant for General Motors for many years before retiring. Mary married Gene Harris and moved to Corbin, Kentucky where she helped run his locksmith business, becoming an “expert” herself. She was married to Gene for 8 years who preceded her in death. Mary is survived by two sisters, Betty Santos and Shirley Clark. She is preceded in death by three brothers, William "Teeny" Rutherford, Johnny Rutherford, and JD Rutherford; a sister, Dorothy Scalf; and several half-brothers and sisters. While she had no children of her own, Mary was a loving aunt to many nephews and nieces who she doted on as if they were her own children. She was quick to offer a hand to anyone in need. Aunt Mary will be lovingly remembered for her generosity and steadfast faith in God. She was sassy, kind, and had a contagious laugh. She loved to shop, reminisce, and play Rook. She went on many trips with her siblings throughout the years and enjoyed being with her family. Aunt Mary had an affinity for treats with orange creamsicles being among her favorites. She was extremely resilient having faced many challenges in her life, always with a smile and an undaunting determination. She will be missed greatly, but we feel comforted knowing she is in peace. The viewing will be held at Holding Funeral Home in Big Stone Gap, Virginia on Wednesday, March 12 at from 5 p.m. to 6 p.m. ( 17 E. 3rd St. N.) Services will be held at Powell Valley Memorial Gardens on March 13 at 1:00 p.m. where she will be laid to rest next to her first husband, Ward as she would have wanted. Those wishing to attend her committal service are asked to meet at Powell Valley Memorial Gardens Mausoleum for her committal service at 12:50 p.m. Family and friends will serve as pallbearers. In lieu of flowers, donations can be sent in her honor to The American Heart Association. An online register is available for the family at www.holdingfuneralhome.com Holding Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements.

Mary Carter Harris

March 7, 2025

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