Robert Wayne Harris

On Tuesday, November 26, 2019, I left my beloved island for a new address. I've moved to paradise to live with my Heavenly Father, who never left me and whom I love dearly. My relationship with Jesus Christ began early and became stronger with age. I've always believed our days are numbered, and when ready, God calls us to our heavenly home. I've had 86 years on this earth. I lived ever day to the fullest, had fun, was fun, and enjoyed life. My spirit will continue to be with my wife of 67 years, Marilyn Smith Harris and my 3 children, Victoria Harris Tebo, Dianna Lea Harris and Robert Wayne Harris 2nd.

I grew up in Galveston and went to Galveston schools: San Jacinto, where I was in the choir, and Ball High, where I played a little football. There is no better place to grow up than on this island, where I had a unique childhood! Raised by my grandparents, Charles and Willie Kirkendall, doted on by aunts and uncles, I roamed the beaches and lagoons, fished and ran free.

Always an important part of my life were memberships and volunteering with Indian Guides; Boy Scouts; Lions Club; Elks Lodge; Galveston VFW Post 880; Galveston Historical Foundation, where I was the Town Crier for 30 years during Dickens on the Strand; Z-Krewe, Mardi Gras Krewe, where I served as King Zany X; Osher Lifelong Learning Institute, where I took Spanish; UTMB President's Cabinet; and The Bryan Museum.

At 19, I became a Marine. On leave after boot camp, I met my future wife on the beach between Murdochs and The Balinese Room. We married within two months, and lived in Jacksonville, Florida while I finished training. I was sent to the Korean Conflict, and was there at Panmunjom for the peace signing of the Korean Armistice Agreement. I was then stationed in Japan. I had learned early on to live off my resources, and realized that my poker skills were superior to those of the average Marine. I was not shy about using those skills to my benefit!

Upon discharge, we moved to Houston, where our children were born and raised. I began work as a hairdresser, opening my own business, Braes Oaks Hair Fashions, and worked in that until the children were in college. I left the beauty business and entered the real estate business, where I remained until retirement in 2000.

Our family enjoyed road trips and was on the go every summer, enjoying outdoor adventures, from rivers, to oceans to mountains. My favorite destination was Yellowstone National Park, where we could relax and observe wild animals from a safe distance. Animals were always a part of our family, having pets from dogs, cats, canaries, skunks and a beautiful aquarium.

I leave in peace, leaving love to my friends and family, whom I will see at a later time in my new home.

Upon his return to Galveston in 2007, Bob Harris was active with the On the Sidewalk concerts, where he made many new friends and was known as the Old Marine. He and his wife were honorary members of the Coconut Grove Bunch, which was comprised of Ronnie Maceo, Bubba Donovan and Cruz Cortez. They are active in having fun and making fun, and it was an honor to be included. Bob was First King of Krewe de Maceo, another local honor among a group of local fun-makers!

He began 2019 with a fall that caused a broken hip and shoulder, leading to a long year of recuperation, but complaints were never heard from him. He continued to be jovial and interact with whomever he came in contact.

I wish to thank the staff at UTMB Geriatric Home Care, Absolute Kheir Home Health and Absolute Kheir Hospice for their loving and attentive care given Bob. His life was extended and made more enjoyable because of these devoted caregivers, most of whom became his friends.   Many loyal and valued friends came to say goodbye, and fortunately he was able to recognize and be aware of them all.   This was one very well-loved man! He will be sorely missed by man

Graveside services with Military honors provided by the U.S. Marine Corps will be held 9:30am Friday, November 29, 2019 at Houston National Cemetery 10410 Veteran Memorial Parkway Houston, Texas 77038. A memorial service will be held at 3:00pm Tuesday December 10, 2019 at Carnes Brothers Funeral Home.

In lieu of flowers, please make donations to a veteran's group, www.wheelchairsforwarriors.com