Claudia Jo Harris Allan's Obituary
Our dear mother, Claudia Jo Harris Allan, peacefully passed away due to Alzheimer’s, on August 28, 2021, surrounded by her two sons and their families.
Claudia was born in Holyoke, Massachusetts on October 1, 1943, to J. Leonard and Katy Harris — anchoring autumn and its fall colors as important touchstones in her life.
Claudia was the oldest of six children, and accepted the role of “big sister” as both a responsibility and a blessing. Growing up in Mapleton and Springville, Utah, Claudia enjoyed dances, dating, and everything social. She graduated from Springville High School in 1961.
In her youth, Claudia had significant spiritual experiences that deepened her faith in a loving Heavenly Father.
Claudia chose and married a local Springville boy, Wayne Allan, in the Manti, Utah temple on June 14, 1963. Through the priesthood of God, their family was sealed for all eternity. This authority and its promised blessings served as a bedrock foundation for her faith when the storms of life came.
Claudia and Wayne had five children (three daughters and two sons); Mykel, Carli, Kenyan, Tyler, and Trysta. Their family moved to new “adventures” in Colorado, California, New Jersey, and Rhode Island; making friends, while learning and teaching valuable lessons along the way. Their moves eventually returned them home to Utah in 1992, to be near their extended family and aging parents.
In 1997, all three of Claudia’s daughters were killed in a single-vehicle car accident. Although this tragic event tested her in numerous ways, it proved to be a cornerstone of her faith in Jesus Christ and her confident reliance in His covenant blessings.
Claudia was an active member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, and served in various ward and stake callings. As a Great Great Grandaughter of Martin Harris (one of the three witnesses to the Book of Mormon), Claudia was quite involved in the Harris Family, serving as the organization’s president for a time.
Throughout her life, Claudia sought opportunities to serve ward and family members, opening her home to a number of nephews, nieces, and friends that needed a “safe place to belong.” She ministered to many with a sincere smile, a listening ear, and an infectious laugh (Mom loved to laugh). Claudia exemplified true Christlike charity as she lifted and served those around her.
Claudia is survived by her sons; Kenyan (Nikki Moss) Allan of Orem, and Tyler (Mariana Donoho) Allan of Highland, with many grandchildren, and step-grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her parents (J. Leonard and Katy Harris), a younger brother (Kent), her husband (Wayne), and her three daughters (Mykel, Carli, Trysta) … We are comforted that she is finally reunited with so many that she loves.
The family expresses gratitude to Charity, and the Memory Care staff at Spring Gardens of Lindon. We are especially grateful to Envision Home Health, and for the loving and respectful hospice care rendered by Nate Mansanarez.
Funeral services will be held Wednesday (Sept. 8) 11:30 am, at 50 South 750 West in Orem (LDS church).
A viewing will be held at the same location; Tuesday (Sept. 7) 6:00-8:00 pm, and Wednesday (Sept. 8) 10:00-11:15 am.
Interment to follow at Evergreen Cemetery at Springville, Utah.
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