An active member of our greatest generation, Harriet Bean passed away on July 30, 2015. As a young employee, she was the only telephone operator on duty in Cedar City when the announcement of the bombing of Pearl Harbor came over the wire. She then joined the thousands of War Workers and spent the rest of the war installing and repairing aircraft radio equipment.
Harriet was born on June 24, 1917 in Kanab, Utah, the daughter of Frank Gowans and Persis McAllister. She married James William Bean in the Salt Lake Temple on October 5, 1950 and inherited 4 children: Janis Glade (Gerald), Jim Bean, Joanne Shelton (Tom), and Jennean Dale. They later bore two more children, Betty Alice Moriarty (Bruce) and Barbara Ann Crooks (David).
Harriet was a devout member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. She faithfully filled various callings throughout every auxiliary and served a mission with her husband at the Independence Missouri Visitor's Center.
She enjoyed dancing and her many life-long friends. She loved her neighborhood and was frequently seen walking down the street with a warm loaf of bread under her arm. Still visiting neighbors in her late 80s, a stop light on 1300 East was timed for her to safely cross. Harriet developed her talent for creative writing and left behind many interesting stories based on her life and family events.
The world is a better place because of Harriet. She blessed the lives of her family, friends, and community. She leaves 6 children, 25 grandchildren, 35 great grandchildren, and 37 great great grandchildren.
There will be a viewing on Friday, Aug. 7, from 10:30-11:45 followed by a 12:00 funeral service at Larkin Mortuary, 260 S. Temple. She will be interred in the Salt Lake City Cemetery.
The family expresses appreciation for the exceptional service rendered by Pacifica Millcreek, Brighton Hospice, and Larkin Mortuary. Memorial contributions can be made to Primary Children's Hospital or the General Missionary Fund.
