Mr. Willie Cleveland Harris

Mr. Willie Cleveland Harris transitioned from his life here on earth to his “Heavenly Home” to receive his crown on Saturday, November 6, 2021 at the age of 97 years. The son of Ella Mae Harris and Lorenzo Bell. Willie C. was born September 24, 1924 in Bay Minette, Alabama. Willie received his early childhood education in the states of Alabama and Ohio. In later years he was raised and educated in Saginaw, Michigan. He attended Central Middle School and Saginaw High School. Before graduating high school, Willie joined the United States Army and served 3 1/2 years. While serving his country he married Ruth Bell, during this time, three sons were born. Upon his discharge, he began his legacy working at General Motors–Grey Iron Foundry where he began his career with the United Auto Workers. He served as Financial Secretary for Local #668, then as Region 1D International Representative until his retirement in 1988. Willie met and married the love of his life, Dorothy B. Peebles and from this union they were blessed with two children. They were married for 65 years, and together they raised four children. Willie was baptized and attended Mt. Olive Baptist Church during his early years of life. He later joined and became a dedicated, loyal member of Bethesda Baptist Church. He was a lifetime member of the NAACP, and belonged to various organizations and clubs. Willie enjoyed sports. He was an avid golfer, softball player and bowler. He spent many happy days and years involved in these activities and traveling with his family. Willie was a devoted husband and father. He was a hard worker and an inspiration to his family. He made them laugh, provided support and comfort when they needed, made them feel safe and secure and gave the best advice. He always did his best and for that love and dedication he will be forever loved and remembered by his family for many generations to come. Mr. Willie Cleveland Harris is survived by his beloved wife, Dorothy; children, Jackie Peebles, Saginaw, Walter (Diane) Peebles, Pine Bluff, AR, Gary T. Harris, Los Angeles, CA, Linda (Arthur) O’Neal, Saginaw, Stephen (Carolyn) Harris, Sherman, TX; daughter-in-law, Carolyn Harris, California; special chosen daughter, Norma Russell, Saginaw; grandchildren, Symora, Keya, Gary, Aleea and Alonna, California, Octavia and Asia, Florida, David and Tiara, Saginaw, Percy Texas, Boyd, Darius, David, Marcus, Jeanetta and Lacretia, North Carolina; a host of grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren; sister-in-law, Barbara Davis and family, Tulsa, OK; brother-in-law, Wilmer Grayson, Mobile, AL; nieces, Sharon Clark, Phoenix, AZ and Wendy Griffin, Louisville, KY; nephew, Tyrone Grayson, Mobile, AL; many other relatives and friends, including James Richmond, O.C. Anderson, Margaret Williams and Shirley Williams. Willie C. was preceded in death by his mother, Ella Mae (Sis); father, Lorenzo; sons, Michael, and Boyd; sisters, Isabella and Clara; brother, James and son-in-law, Earl. Funeral service will take place at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, November 19, 2021, at Evans & Browne's Funeral Home, 441 North Jefferson Avenue, Saginaw, Michigan 48607. Pastor Greg Johnson will officiate with interment in Forest Lawn Cemetery, 3210 South Washington Avenue, Saginaw, Michigan 48601. Friends may call at the Evans & Browne's Funeral Home, 441 N. Jefferson Avenue, Saginaw, MI 48607 on Thursday from 2:00 p.m. until 6:00 p.m.

Mr. Willie Cleveland Harris

September 24, 1922 - November 6, 2021