Gertrude L. (Johnson) Harris, 71, of Parkton Ave., Worcester, died at home Wednesday, June 24, 2009, after a long illness.

    She leaves her devoted husband and best friend of 51 years, Donald J. Harris, Sr.; a son, Donald J. Harris, Jr. of Worcester; three daughters, Ruth A. Robinson of Rutland, Cindy M. Desroches and her husband David of Holden and Nancy L. Sturtevant of Thompson, CT; three brothers, Keith W. Johnson and his wife Joan of Sullivan, NH, Lloyd Johnson and his wife Charlene of Oregon and David L. Johnson and his wife Sharon of Florida; 11 grandchildren, Daniel and Jason Robinson, Camille, Kerra and Dakota Harris, Amanda, David and Shawn Desroches, Nicholas, Patrick and Lindsey Sturtevant; 2 great-grandchildren, Shayne and Preston; several nephews and nieces. A brother, Arthur L. Johnson, Jr. died in1998.

    Gert was born and raised in Keene, NH, the daughter of Arthur L. and Eleanor (McGrath) Johnson, Sr. and lived 30 years in Holden before moving to Worcester. Many years ago, she was a crossing guard in Holden and worked at the Holden Spa. She loved all children especially her grandchildren, great-grandchildren and "adopted" grandchildren.

    A private graveside service will be held at Worcester County Memorial Park, Paxton. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Why Me? Inc. & Sherry's House, 1152 Pleasant St., Worcester, MA 01602. Miles Funeral Home, 1158 Main St., Holden, is directing arrangements.