Mrs. Bernice Harris was born September 6, 1931, in Crockett, Texas, to Wesley and Novella Cooper.  She was the 16th of 17 children.  She accepted Christ at a very early age and was baptized and fellowshipped into the Union Prairie Baptist Church.

Bernice Harris attended school at Union Prairie Baptist School and graduated from Williams High School.  While in high school, she played basketball with her sister and other cousins.  She continued her education at Franklin Beauty School in Houston and became a licensed beautician.  Later, she went to work for Allee’s Garment Plant working along side other family members for over 29 years.  After the closing of the plant, she then went to work for Crockett ISD as a cafeteria worker.  She then opened the Porter Spring Quilt shop with her niece Lucille Davis. 

Mrs. Bernice Harris was united in Holy Matrimony to Mr. Bennie Harris in 1950.  To this union, 5 children were born.

Bernice was very active in civic duties. She was instrumental in establishing the Porter Springs Fire Department, was a lifetime member of the NAACP, and a poling judge during voting.

She was life-long member of Union Prairie Baptist Church and always had a listening ear.  She was active in the BTU and Mission.  For many years, she served as the Sunday School teacher for the Juniors class and was a member of the program committee at the church for annual days. She remained faithful until her health failed and she could no longer attend services.  Even then, she continued to be a faithful steward and sent her tithes and offering to support the church.

On Tuesday, August 6, 2024, at 10:50 am, Mrs. Harris ascended back to the Lord  whom she served and trusted so faithfully. She was preceded in death by both parents; her husband, Bennie Harris; four sons, James Edward Harris, James Arthur Harris, Larry Wade Harris, and Ronald Lynn Harris; one grandson, Adrian Lee Arnold; one great grandson, Arthur James Harris; and sixteen sisters and brothers.

Those who remain to cherish her memories are daughter, Josephine Arnold of Missouri City, Texas; 10 grandchildren; 15 great grandchildren; 5 daughters-in-law, Iris, Monica, Linda, Freddie, and Linda Harris; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends; special thanks to the Orme Family, Joyce Cooper, and Ms. E. Ellis.