Roger Glen Harris

ROGER GLEN HARRIS, beloved husband, father and friend to so many, went home to be with the Lord on Sunday December 23, 2007. He was born November 22, 1940 in Merkel Texas. Roger lived a full and meaningful life. He collected many athletic awards while attending John H. Reagan High School in the Houston Heights. Before graduating in 1959, Roger was a 3 year letterman in football 2 year All District, and All American. His senior year, Roger was the Football Team Captain, and voted the Most Valuable Player. Roger attended the University of Texas, Lamar State University, and Sam Houston State University. He earned a Degree majoring in Physical Education and a minor in education, and then later returned to school to receive his Master's. Roger made a career of coaching and teaching. He was a favorite teacher and coach at Fonville Junior High School, Albert Thomas Junior High School, Ross S. Sterling High School, Sam Houston High School, and Alief Hasting High School. He coached Football, Basketball, Track, and Tennis. His teaching credits included Texas History, American History, Physical Education, Biology, and Drivers Education. Roger then moved into administration in Alief, first becoming Assistant Principal, then Principal, and then Coordinating Principal of Alief Hastings High School. In 1989, Roger took the position as the Director of Transportation, and eventually retired from the district as Assistant Superintendent of Support Services for A.I.S.D. in 1997. Roger is preceded in death by his loving parents, Loyd R. and Mary Ellen Riggin Harris, his adoring in-laws Tommie and Frances Maddi, and his older brother Jerry G. Harris. He is survived by his devoted wife of 35 years, Mary Frances Maddi Harris, and his son, Thomas Harris. Tommy, a Houston Police Officer was the pride and joy of his father's life. Roger also leaves behind his sister, Betty Sue Leveritt and her husband Al of Houston, Texas, His brother Warren Harris and wife Claudette of Merkel, Texas, and his sister in law Wanda Pillows of Apple Springs, TX. "Uncle Roger" also leaves behind numerous nieces and nephews and a legacy of loyalty and love. Roger will also be greatly missed by his faithful dog "Buster". Roger dearly loved his family, and his family was always his highest priority. His family included so many, and if you were his friend, then he considered you part of his family. This also included the doctors who so gently cared for him. Roger was unwavering in his convictions, and a natural born leader. He had a great sense of humor and loved to share it, even if you were an unwilling participant. Roger will be missed by all, but those who were fortunate enough to truly know him are comforted and understand that little went unsaid, especially in the miraculous last year of his life with us. He was happy, full of love, and he truly appreciated his many blessings. We are at peace knowing that he is making new friends and reacquainting with old ones, while he continues to watch over us from above. We love you Roger! Friends are invited to visit with the family from 6 p.m. until 8 p.m. on Wednesday, December 26, 2007 at Forest Park Westheimer Funeral Home, 12,800 Westheimer. A funeral service will be held at 10 a.m. on Thursday, December 27, 2007 in the chapel of Forest Park Westheimer, Interment will follow in Forest Park Lawndale Cemetery. In lieu of flowers Donations can be made to the Houston 100 Club Survivors Fund.