BELLA VISTA — Tom Harris

passed into his Heavenly Home Sunday, May 21, 2023, surrounded by family members. Tom was born Oct. 12, 1932, on an oil lease near Jennings, Okla., to Hugh E. Harris and Rubeal F. Harris.

The family moved to Stroud, Okla. when Tom was 4. Tom was educated in Stroud and then graduated from the University of Oklahoma with a master’s degree in education. He taught Industrial Arts in junior high and high schools in Norman for over 14 years; Woodburn, Indiana, for 12 years, and Bentonville, Ark., for 7 years. Tom was a member of the Sig Ep Fraternity at OU. He was also in ROTC during his college years. Tom was on active duty in the Army for 3 years and then Army Reserve for 16 years.

During his youth, Tom was a member of the Boy Scouts and enjoyed two summers at Philmont. He was a Boy Scout leader in Oklahoma and Indiana when his children were involved. The Lions Club was also an important part of Tom’s life for over 50 years. Tom was a member of the Bella Vista First United Methodist Church where he served in many capacities.

Tom was an avid golfer who loved the Bella Vista courses and the many friendships made there. He was very proud of his holein-one that he made in 2021. His comment was it only took 74 years!

Tom was predeceased in death by his parents; his first wife and mother of his children, Marilyn Miller Harris; and brother, Hugh E. Harris, Jr.

He is survived by his current wife, Molly WoodardHarris of the home; sons, Tom Harris (Cynthia) of Bellingham, Wash. and Todd Harris ( Lori) of Indianapolis, Ind.; grandson, Hank Harris (Kristina) and great-granddaughter, Izabella Harris of Bellingham, Wash.; sister, Helen Harris Rossney (Joe) of Murrysville, Pa.; and stepsons, Curtis and Christopher Weber of Springdale, Ark.; nieces, Anne Harris, Marilyn Clemons, and Janet Beamer; as well as many step-grandchildren and step great-grandchildren.

A celebration of life for this wonderful gentleman will be held on Tuesday, June 6, 2023, at 11 a.m. at the Bella Vista First United Methodist Church, 20 Boyce Drive, Bella Vista, Ark. 72715.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Bella Vista First United Methodist Church, the BV Animal Shelter, 32 Bella Vista Way, Bella Vista, Ark. 72714, a veteran’s organization, or an organization of your choice.

Arrangements are under the direction of Bella Vista Funeral Home & Crematory. On-line condolences may be made at www.funeralmation.com.