Barbara Morris Harison passed away peacefully on July 27, 2026 at her home in Ventura, California of
complications from cystic fibrosis. She was born in East Cleveland, Ohio to Eugene Morris and Margaret
Coakley Morris on May 30, 1946.
Her family moved to California in 1958. She graduated from Alemany High School in 1964 and later
earned a bachelor’s degree from San Jose State University as well as advanced degrees from San
Francisco State University and Pepperdine University.
Barbara began her career in municipal recreation with The City of Millbrae and later served as Director
of Parks and Recreation for the City of Campbell. From 1986 until 1993 she served as the City of
Ventura’s Park and Recreation Director. During her tenure, she advocated for the creation of the
Kimball Community Park and Aquatics Center, the start of the City’s Public Arts Program, and led the
successful transfer of the Ventura Pier from State ownership to the City of Ventura. She left her City
position to start her own consulting business where she had a tremendous impact on many nonprofits
and public agencies. Barbara was active in the California Parks and Recreation Society and Pier into the
Future. She founded and served as the Executive Director of the Hillsides Conservancy (now the
Ventura Land Trust). Barbara also served on the Board of Directors of the Cystic Fibrosis Life Style
Foundation, the Ventura County Community College District Personnel Commission and the Channel
Islands Harbor Commission.
Barbara is survived by her husband Richard, her brother Patrick Morris, her sister Eileen Dawes and
Eileen’s children.
Barbara enjoyed golf, swimming and reading. She will be remembered for her energy, determination
and loyalty.
Memorial donations may be made to the Loretta Morris Fund with BreatheStrongCF, PO Box 2984,
Tucker, GA 30085.
Arrangements are under the direction of the JOSEPH P. REARDON FUNERAL HOME & CREMATION SERVICE,
Ventura.