Leila "Jo" Harlan

October 28, 1929 - July 1, 2020

Leila “Jo” Harlan passed away July 1, 2020 in Dallas. She was born on October 28, 1929 in Payne Springs, Tx to Albert Verde and Nettie Bell Walker Avant. Jo was preceded in death by her parents, her husband Jake Ballard Harlan, brothers: Cullen Avant and Owen Avant (who was killed in WWII) and sister Dovie Luffman. Jo grew up in Payne Springs and later moved to Seagoville where she and her sister Dovie worked together at Seagoville Beauty Shop for many years. She was a member of the First United Methodist Church in Seagoville. She had a passion to be in God’s word and, in later years when her eyesight declined, she could be found in front of the tv listening to His word through tv ministries. Jo also had a great desire for Native American culture and artifacts and would spend many hours doing research on the history and heritage of Native American tribes. Jo is survived by her sons: Bobby Joe Harlan of Eustace, Tom Harlan and wife, Jill, of Terrell; granddaughters: E.J. Mathis and Rose Harlan as well as other extended family members and friends. Her family will receive friends 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Monday, July 6, 2020 at Max Slayton Funeral Chapel. There will be a graveside service 2 p.m. Tuesday, July 7, 2020 at Pleasant Grove Cemetery in Combine, Texas.