In Memoriam

Former West Tennessee band director Leeburn R. Harris passed away on Monday, November 13th, 2006. His 34 year teaching career included Parsons H.S. from 1958-1964, Riverside H.S. from 1964-1975, and Lexington H.S. from 1975-1992. Those who knew Leeburn will remember him for his tireless work ethic, his dedication to his students, and his unending sense of humor.

From The Jackson Sun - 11/15/06

Leeburn Ray Harris,

Services for Mr. Leeburn Ray Harris, 74, of Parsons, will be held on Thursday, November 16, 2006 at 11:00 A.M. at First Baptist Church in Parsons. Bro. Mark Mangrum will officiate and interment will follow at Pleasant Grove Cemetery. Parsons Mortuary is in charge of arrangements.

Mr. Harris, retired band director, died Monday morning, November 13 at Decatur County General Hospital.

Mr. Harris was born in Lexington, TN. He graduated from Lexington High School and enlisted in the U.S. Air Force. He served four years as a Staff Sergeant and had a year tour in Germany. After his discharge, he entered the University of Memphis, and continued his education until he had 45 hours above his Masters Degree.

He began his teaching career at Parsons High School, later teaching at Riverside High and Lexington High School. He retired in 1992 and was able to spend his time traveling, fishing, hunting and raising his prized miniature beagles. He was a member of First Baptist Church and played trumpet in the First Baptist church Brass. He was a member of the VFW and the Jacks Creek Beagle Club.

Mr. Harris leaves to cherish his memory his wife, Peggy; also his brother, Willie Gray (Kay) of Rolla, MO; his sisters, Mary Elizabeth Johnson of Elwood, IL and Rosa Nell Garner (Danny) of Lexington; his children, Mike Harris of Finger, TN, Jim Harris (Theda) and Lynda Myracle (Kenny) all of Jackson; and five grandchildren, Aaron and Casey Harris, Carly, Kelly and Jacob Myracle. He also leaves a host of nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Walter and Willie Murren Harris and a brother, William Lawton Harris.