Ora Mae Harrison

Ora Mae Everett, the daughter of Guy Everett and Patsy Carolyn Dixon, was born on June 24, 1953, in Sneads Ferry, North Carolina.

Ora attended public school in Sneads Ferry, North Carolina. On August 31, 1970, she welcomed her only son, Michael Everett, who became her entire world.

In 1976, Ora married Lonnie Palmer in Burgaw, North Carolina. She later decided to make Indianapolis, Indiana, her home, where she would build a life filled with family, friendships, and many cherished memories.

Ora worked for many years for Indianapolis Public Schools, faithfully dedicating herself to her work until her retirement in the early 2000s.

In 1998, Ora married Paul Harrison.

Ora was a deeply devoted wife and mother who always put family first. She treasured spending time with the people she loved and especially enjoyed laughing with family and friends. Anyone who knew Ora also knew that she got quite a kick out of “fussing” at you—a part of her personality that those closest to her will remember with a smile.

Ora was a giver by nature and never shied away from helping someone in need. Her caring and generous spirit touched the lives of many people throughout the years.

During her quiet time, Ora loved watching classic television shows. Some of her favorites included In the Heat of the Night, Gunsmoke, Dallas, and Little House on the Prairie, just to name a few. She could happily spend the entire day watching “her shows,” as she affectionately called them.

Ora departed this life on Wednesday, September 30, 2026, at the age of 73 years, 3 months, and 6 days.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Guy Everett and Patsy Carolyn Dixon; her first husband, Lonnie Palmer; and her beloved only child, Michael Everett.

Ora leaves to cherish her extraordinary memory her God-Son, Kevin Earl; her God-Daughter, Margaret “Marcee” Garner; her “adopted grandchildren,” Brandon Johnson, Jenee Petersen, and Jayla Wade; her best friend, Geraldine Riley; her devoted “look-out” team, Mr. George, Laurie, Ms T and Donnie Twitty; Shauna Williams; Ashley Lillard; and the entire Advancing Residential Care LLC team.

She also leaves behind a host of cousins, extended family members, and dear friends in Sneads Ferry, Chicago, Philadelphia, Indianapolis, and beyond.

Ora’s life will be remembered through the love she gave, the laughter she shared, the people she helped, and the many lives she touched. Her presence will be deeply missed, but the memories she created will remain forever in the hearts of those who knew and loved her.