Obituary of Clarence L. Harris

Clarence L. Harris Goshen, NY Clarence L. Harris, 70, of Goshen was beloved by his family and entered into eternal life Thursday July 17, 2008. He was born July 30, 1937 in West Philadelphia, PA the son of the late Leroy and Alice (Woods) Harris. He was the fourth of five children (Arthur, Clifton, Margaret, and William). All of his siblings preceded him in death. His oldest brother, an 83 year old decorated veteran in the segregated army of WWII also recently made his transition from this life. Clarence honorably served his country for six years in the Korean War, studied in a Catholic Seminary after he served in the military was a Mason and was employed at Columbia University in NYC. He retired in 1997 after more that 27 years of service. While he was active in various auxiliary organizations at different points during in his life, he was most proud of his five-year-old grandchildren whom he (calling them king David or little boy squeaky and the temperamental little miss faithful) often referred to them as his very special gifts from God to bring new JOY into his life. On several occasions he stated that the only thing he really wanted to be remembered for was that he had truly been redeemed and that in his last years of life, he transcended many barriers armed with the faith of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob. He is survived by his wife of more that 30 years, Mona C. Harris of Goshen; daughters Heidi Harris and husband Dr. David Lemmel of Rhode Island and Monique Harris of Goshen; two grandchildren, David Amir Lememl, and Faith Belinda-Amiri Lemmel. In addition to the immediate family, he is survived by four nephews and nieces of Baltimore, Dover, and Philadelphia (the children of his siblings). Likewise he leaves behind a host of brothers-in-laws, sister-in-laws, and other relatives across the east coast from South Carolina to Massachusetts. At his request, a private Catholic graveside service will be held for him on Tuesday July 22, 2008 at 10:30 am in the Orange County Veterans Memorial Cemetery, Craigsville Road, Goshen. The Pastor of Saint Johns Catholic church will be officiating. Potted Sunflowers, lavender, sage, and other herbs will be used to mark his Physical remains. Symbolic items from the family, including pictures were placed in his casket prior to cremation. Arrangements are under the care of Donovan Funeral Home in Goshen, N.Y. To leave the family a personal condolences please visit donovanfunerals.com