H. Merrill Harris

H. Merrill Harris, 90, of Independence, MO passed away on March 12, 2006. He was born to Ruby and Steward Harris on Sept. 20, 1915 in Mt. Carmel, Illinois. Merrill has lived in Independence, MO since the age of 8. He has been married for 69 years to the love of his life, Leota Millard Harris. Merrill retired from Amoco in 1976 after 32 years. He was a very active member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints where he served as Bishop for 8 � years, as well as two missions with Leota in British Columbia and the Independence Visitors Center. Merrill and Leota have traveled widely in the United States (including Alaska and Hawaii), Europe, Israel, Mexico, Central America and Canada. He is survived by his wife Leota; daughter, Marilyn Klees of Florida; son, David of California; 13 grandchildren; and 31 great grandchildren; as well as daughters-in-law, Karen Harris and Carol Harris. Mr. Harris was preceded in death by his son, Dale Harris in 1977; and his grandson, Brent Harris in 1980. A visitation will be held from 6:30-8:00 p.m. on Thursday, March 16, at Speaks Suburban Chapel on East 39th St. A funeral service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, March 17, at the LDS Church located at 5609 Norfleet Road in Independence. Contributions can be made to the Humanitarian Relief Fund of the LDS Church.