Obituary of Duane P. Harris Sr.
Duane P. Harris was born on November 29, 1948 in Monroe, Michigan to Norman Smith and the former Zelma Fisher. He was the eldest of six siblings. Duane attended Monroe High School. After obtaining a GED, he continued his education, studying law. Duane never stopped striving to learn. He was blessed with a son who described Duane as “the wisest man I know”.
Duane was very active. He routinely jogged five miles each day. As a young man, he trained to become a boxer. Duane enjoyed reading, studying history and keeping up with current events and sports statistics. A talented writer, he was proud to have written articles published in Ebony magazine and the Monroe News. Duane was many things to many people. He mentored several individuals and ministered to those in crisis. He cared deeply for his family and kept in touch with eloquent letters and frequent phone calls.
Duane P. Harris Sr., age 75, passed away unexpectedly on Tuesday, June 4, 2024. His passing was preceded by his father; his stepfather: Ernest Harris; and infant brother: William.
To cherish his memory, he leaves his son and namesake: Duane P. Harris Jr.; his mother: Zelma Harris; five grandchildren: Desiree Ellison, Ashia Harris, Precious Harris, Jaq-lynn Harris, and Mar-quette Harris; two great grandchildren: Jeremiah Walker and Naomi Joy Ellison; five sisters: Wendy (Jessie) Johnson, Jennifer (Clifford) Harris-Rocker, Olaia Harris, Larosa Harris and Melissa Harris; three brothers: George (Bardia) Harris, Dexter Harris, Ernest Lee Harris Jr; a host of nieces and nephews; many friends including lifelong friends: Jerry McKart, Danny Minton Jr., Aaron Atkins, Eddie Hudson, and the late Rev. Rance Allen as well as special friends: Kellie Vuich, Elizabeth Martin, and Donna Caine; special cousin: Sametta Adams; and chess playing opponent and friend: Clarence Overstreet. He loved and cherished all of his family and friends, too many to name but all special to him.
Friends may gather on Tuesday, June 11, 2024 from 11:00am until 1:00pm at Merkle Funeral Service, South Monroe; 14567 South Dixie Highway, Monroe, Michigan 48161 (734) 241-7070. A Homegoing Celebration of Duane’s Life will be held at 1:00pm, also at Merkle’s, followed by a procession to Woodland Cemetery in Monroe for burial.
Online guests may leave words of inspiration and comfort or share a photo by visiting www.merklefs.com.