Mr. Charles Claude Harris Jr.

August 26, 1944 - May 1, 2019

Charles Claude “Chuck” Harris Jr., 74, of Springfield, Missouri, died on the evening of May 1, 2019 at 9:35 pm. He was surrounded by his loving family, joined hand in hand, during his last moments before ascending to Our Lord. He was the loving husband of his cherished wife of 55 years, Shirley Ann (Smith) Harris. Chuck was born at home near Vanzant, Missouri on August 26, 1944 to the late Verba and Charles Harris. He was eldest son of six siblings. His childhood was filled with hunting, fishing, rough-housing and helping around the house. He played multiple sports throughout his youth and was an accomplished football player at Willow Springs High School. Following high school; his family moved to Walla Walla, Washington and he worked odd jobs until his father directed him to find a purpose in life. This prompted him to join the United States Navy on July 24, 1962. He grabbed his toiletries and headed off to San Diego for Boot Camp and Radio Operator training, where he volunteered for Submarine Duty, earning the title “Bubblehead”. He completed RM A-School, and dove in with both feet to conquer Submarine Basics at New London, CT. Full of spit and vinegar, Chuck reported to the warm waters and bikini clad beaches of Key West, Florida; arriving at the brow of USS Sea Poacher (SS-406), then cross-decked onboard USS Chopper (SS-342). Throughout his Navy adventures, Chuck continued to communicate with his high school sweetheart, Shirley Ann Smith, and was determined to marry her. He proposed, she accepted, and on very short notice, they were wed in Birch Tree, Missouri on August 9, 1963. They packed their belongings into their 1963 Ember Red Chevrolet Impala and darted off to sunny Key West, Florida, where Chuck finished his Navy tour. Upon being honorably discharged on August 20, 1965, he and Shirley moved to Enid, Oklahoma and they began planning their family. Chuck worked building telephone distribution stations and this resulted in follow on employment with Frisco Railroad, where he worked for 23 years. Not afraid of opportunities or challenges, Chuck held a number of positions and owned several successful businesses in Oklahoma, Texas, Arkansas and Mississippi before finally retiring to Springfield, Missouri in 2009. Chuck relished the research of improving his race horse breed inventory associated with their 3-C’s Ranch. This unique time provided endless learning opportunities for the whole Harris’ Family. They traveled to many dirt road accessed race tracks and farms, met many unique, well natured, individuals and shared humble times with many families less fortunate then they. Chuck always assisted in any manner he could. He piloted his own plane, survived a plane crash, and mustered up nerve to overcome and proceeded to fly again. “Never give up, this dog has a lot more fight” he would often say. However, his favorite occupations were; loving husband, proud father, indulgent grandfather, big brother “Bud” and faithful friend. He adored his family and they him. He cherished lifelong friendships with a handful of people and could always be counted on to retell funny stories and keep everyone laughing; just ask his grandkids. He was predeceased by his parents and his brother in law Richard Eding. He is survived by his devoted wife Shirley and their sons; Charles (Chad) Harris III and his companion Ms. Fareedah Washington of Rolla, Missouri, and Cody Harris and wife Despina of Cranston, Rhode Island. Grandfather to four: Charles IV (Virginia), Elisha (Texas), Madison and Mason (Rhode Island). He was the dear brother of Lillie (Steve) Wheeler, Ella (late Richard) Eding, Stanley (Vina) Harris, Netta (Royce) Yardley, Robert (Jeanne) Harris. He also leaves behind several beloved great grandkids, nieces, nephews, friends and the Greek Nation. He was larger than life and we loved him dearly. He will be missed by all who knew and loved him. May he rest in peace and may his memory be eternal. Calling hours will be held on Tuesday, May 7, 2019 from 11:00am – 12:00pm at Willow Funeral Home LLC, 106 E 3rd St., Willow Springs, MO 65793. The funeral immediately follows. Burial will be at Howell Memorial Park Cemetery, 5604 US Highway 63, Pomona, MO 65789. In lieu of flowers, donations in his memory may be sent to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.