Last night I attended the Region Band concert, where my daughter Nicole, a student of Gary, performed.  It brought back the memories of Gary coming out to the house to get her started on flute, and what a wonderful journey it has been.  Gary was a great teacher, and a kind spirit, that kindled the love of music in many young people - and touched so many lives. I feel fortunate to have known him.  Our thoughts and love to all of his family.

Gary's name came up recently when my now high school junior was reflecting on learning flute with him when she was elementary age (she has received Texas State competition honors on the flute this year!).  Obviously, he made a wonderful impact on her, and she was sad to hear from me that she couldn't express her gratitude to him directly....she brought him up saying that she wanted to let him know how he helped her.  Much love to your family!

My deepest condolences go out to the entire Harris family. You touched so many with your talents. You were such a genius great person. Only giving the opportunity and a hand in life as everyone the same. Your accomplishments were grand. You were always a high achiever and you will never be forgotten

Today I am deeply saddened to learn of Gary's passing.  To the Harris family, I send my deepest, heartfelt condolences.  Gary and I were lifelong friends--almost 40 years.  I first met him in 1977 when we both worked at the Fort Monroe PX.  We immediately clicked because we had something in common.  Both our fathers were SGMs and knew each other at Fort Monroe. I remember going to Aberdeen Barn to hear him play his soulful sax.  Those were good times.  Gary's travels with the Army took him around the globe, as did mine, but he always contacted me when he was back in Tidewater.  He came to my wedding at the Chapel of the Centurion almost 25 years ago.  Years would go by but we always stayed in touch.  I last spoke with him around Christmas 2014 when he told me he had esophageal cancer.  In a strange coincidence, my step-brother also had the disease and passed in December 2015.  I will always remember Gary's big smile and positive attitude.  Those are fond memories that I will miss.  So rest in peace my lifelong friend, soldier, and Saxman.  You will be dearly missed.  Memory eternal...

Larry, we are deeply saddened to just learn of the loss of your beloved brother, Gary.  You have our deepest sympathy as we pray for continued strength and peace for the entire Harris family. Sending you healing thoughts and light.

In times of sorrow in times of despair in times of doubt look upon the good times Joy and peace will be there. We will miss Gary but he playing on glorious stage now.

Our thoughts and prayers are with you. 
Gary was our son Everett's dear friend since their college days. God's love will sustain during this difficult time.

My thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time.

Portia Taylor 
Gainesville, FL

Dear Harris Family,

The Gilliam family is sadden because of the passing of Gary. 
We were neighbors and friends   
for many year until we grew up
and went our separate ways,  
but we always seem to find our 
way back. I can remember 
hearing the twins practice their
music for hours after school. I 
know you all love Gary and 
miss him but God love him 
better. God woke Gary up that 
morning and said son enough is 
enough my son come make 
music like I taught you in 
heaven. Our prayers and thoughts are with you all. Hang in there because Joy will come in the morning. God bless and keep you all.

Harris Family, I offer my condolences to you all, Gary was very talented and a amazing fun loving friend that will be sadly missed. During this time of celebration think about how he lived and all the lives he touched. He was an AWESOME man. Lift your hearts cause sunshine does come in the morning, GOD said....

Thank you for bringing so much happiness and love into our home through your music and teachings. Though Alex and I are missing you dearly, the sounds of the piano will forever be a reminder of your beautiful soul.  
Gary was an amazing friend and piano teacher for my son, Alex for over 7 years. He's had a profound impact on our lives through his positive outlook on life.  To Lisa and the Harris Family, may God comfort and grant you strength at this time. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus Philippians 4:7.

To the Harris Family I want you to know that I understand that there are no amount of words that can express what you are going through at this time of loss. However, I want you to know that you are loved. God is your strength and your source of understanding. Love you,

My heart is full and I'm very sorry for your lost. I offer my sincere condolences to you all.  Gary was very special to me.  I found myself wanting to connect so often.  Now I'll have to wait until I see him again. Larry hang in there!

May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.

To God be the Glory for allowing Gary to spread so much joy and happiness to all he touched.  Through his music, his words of wisdom and even his humorous spirit-Gary showed love.  To the family -Lean on God even more, His grace will sustain you.  What a bright jewel we all shared.

Our deepest condolences to the family.  Gary was a sincere musician and long time dear friend since 1982. Peace.

Expressing our deepest sympathy. Gary was a wonderful piano teacher to my grandson and a friend to our family. He will be missed. 

~Jan Gould, Paige,Texas

Peace my friend. I'll always remember all the good times we shared. God's blessings be upon you and your family.

Rest in peace my brother, you will never be forgotten.

Rest in peace Gary. You were an inspiration.

Mark Morgan

My heartfelt condolences. Great friend and excellent neighbor.

Our deepest condolences.  Gary was a wonderful teacher and we will miss him greatly.  He will always be a part of my son's childhood and remembered fondly by our family.

OBITUARY

Gary Donald Harris

22 January, 1957 – 7 July, 2015

Cook-Walden/Capital Parks Funeral Home & Cemetery

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