Theodore Harris

Theodore Harris, 90, of DeRidder, LA passed away Wednesday, July 30, 2025. Visitation will be Monday, August 4 from 10am-12pm at Chaddick Funeral Home. Funeral service will be Monday, August 4 at 12pm at Chaddick Funeral Home. Interment will be at Central Louisiana Veterans Cemetery. Rev. Phillip Baker will officiate.

Theodore Harris was born on September 30th, 1934, in Shreveport, LA. He was known as Ted, Tedo, Dad and Papaw by his friends and family. He started working at a very young age and always did what he could to help his mother and siblings while growing up. After starting his own family, he was a great husband and father… always very protective, especially of his wife, Shirley, of 70 years. He proudly served 25 years in the Army - He was a Green Beret and spent two tours in Vietnam, which he very rarely spoke of. He was a highly decorated soldier receiving The Vietnam Cross of Gallantry With Palm, two Bronze Stars, The Legion of Merit, a Purple Heart, among many other medals during his career. He was ‘Airborne’ and jumping out of planes was something he did frequently- this would eventually take his hearing. He retired as a Sargent Major and he and Shirley bought a home in DeRidder, where they enjoyed many wonderful years together.

Theodore is survived by his wife of 70 years, Shirley Harris of DeRidder, LA; three children, Laurie Welch & Larry of Brandon, MS, Kimberly Harris of Ocean Springs, MS, and Dave Harris of DeRidder, LA; six grandchildren, Ashley Welch of Brandon, MS, Matthew Welch & Clarissa of Bay Springs, MS, Logan Welch & Rachel of Brandon, MS, Mark Eckman, Jr. of D'Iberville, MS, Joshua Eckman & Heather of Leesville, LA, and Christy Eckman of D'Iberville, MS; seven great-grandchildren; and one sister, Helen Ruth Duty & Carl of Albany, LA.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Clyde & Mary Harris; sister, Frances; and four brothers, Eddie, Oliver, Clyde, and Johnny.