LONNI (KATY) CATHERINE HARRISON March 22, 1945 – June 10, 2024
Lonni (Katy) Harrison, 79, a long-time resident of White Rock, NM, passed away peacefully on June 10, 2024, surrounded by her family.
Katy was born on March 22, 1945, in Rogers, Arkansas, to the late Averill and Lawrence Heisserer. In 1968, she graduated from UT Arlington as salutatorian of her class with a bachelor’s degree in physics. She went on to work on Bell Helicopter’s Osprey program before joining Los Alamos National Laboratory in 1969 and later earning her PhD in physics.
Katy was a devoted wife and mother, and a woman of many talents. She had a kind heart, a sharp mind, an adventurous spirit, and an insatiable curiosity. She was an accomplished pianist who also loved swimming, tennis, and ice skating. She later took up Irish dancing and fencing. She loved art and music but was also a die-hard fan of Star Trek who spent many hours pondering “what was out there”.
Throughout her life, she was a tireless supporter of her children. In addition to pushing them academically, she also participated in scouting activities, hiking, refereeing soccer matches, and even took up a keen interest in rugby. She also made some amazing Halloween costumes!
Katy is survived by her husband of 58 years, Bob; her brother, Larry Heisserer of Texarkana, TX; and her two children, Andra Kondra of Tacoma, WA, and Rob Harrison of Santa Fe, NM. Her legacy of support, love, and kindness will live on in the hearts of those she touched. Now, she is one with the stars in the sky forever shining bright.
The family would like to recognize the following: The outstanding staff at Christus St. Vincent Regional Medical Center in Santa Fe, the incredibly caring members of both EGIS Home Care and Anvoi Hospice who made it possible for Katy to return to the comfort of her home, and to friends and neighbors for their loving support. We cannot thank you enough.
At Katy’s request, no memorial service will be held. The family will be having a private celebration of life. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital or other charity of choice.