Albert Harris

Albert Richard "Dick" Harris, Age 89, of Nashville, went to be with the Lord on Tuesday, March 26, 2013. Dearly loved by his family and friends, he was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 55 years, Sara Lee Roberts Harris. A true gentleman, Dick was a loving, kind, generous, fun-loving father, grandfather and great grandfather to his daughters, Lana Thornton, wife of Claiborne Thornton, Nashville, TN; Becky DeGroat, wife of Dan DeGroat, Mineola, TX; sons, Ron Harris married to Suzanne, Austin, TX; Dr. Richard Harris deceased, Nashville, TN; grandchildren, Christina Hansley Matthew, John, Trevor Thornton; Michael Melissa, Sarah, Ryken DeGroat; Caroline, Catherine Harris; and great grandchild, Jackson Thornton. He is also survived by his sister-in-law, Hallie Harris and many nieces and nephews. Born in Waverly, TN to Sylvester Traylor Harris and Mary Clark Harris, Dick was also preceded in death by his brother, S.T. Harris of Dallas, and his sister, Jane Clingan, of Nashville. As a 20 year old, Dick served our country in WWII as a B-17 pilot in the 390th Bomb Group stationed in Framlingham, England, flying raids over German munitions factories. Shot down in 1944, he and his crew spent several months in German POW camps. He was imprisoned at Stalag Luft 1on the North Sea. Like other members of "the greatest generation", he seldom discussed and never sought recognition for his service in WWII. He will be buried with military honors. Dick was a strong leader, gifted with intelligence and servant leadership skills. These traits were clear in his wide and varied 40 year career with the Telephone Company where he started as a lineman, moving upward in management with numerous promotions, advancing to the position of Executive with South Central Bell, retiring in 1986. During the 1980's, he was very active with the Telephone Pioneers of America, serving as the Vice President of the Tennessee Chapter and the President of SE Region 13 Pioneers, as they supported organizations benefitting those with special needs. He also very much enjoyed his involvement with the Brentwood Rotary Club, including his two years serving as President. Being a man of strong faith, Dick was a charter member of Woodmont Presbyterian Church for many years, serving as a teacher and Elder. His favorite Bible verse was Isaiah 40:31, "They who wait for the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles; they shall run and not be weary; they shall walk and not faint." His family and friends rejoice that he is now living this reality! There will be a private graveside service, Tuesday, April 2, 2013 at 10:15 a.m., at the Harpeth Hills Memory Gardens with Pastor Jim Bachmann and son-in-law Dan DeGroat officiating. In keeping with our Dad's wishes, beginning at 11:30, all family and friends are invited to his Celebration of Life Memorial Service and lunch in The Pavilion, located on the grounds of Harpeth Hills Memory Garden.
In lieu of flowers Memorial Donations may be made to Global Outreach Group, 24651 Road 448, Van, TX 75790, www.globaloutreachgroup.org or to the 390th Memorial Museum, 6000 East Valencia Rd, Tucson, AZ 85756, www.390th.org.