Bernadine Harris

Bernadine Higgs Harris, 91, longtime resident of Raleigh, died peacefully Monday, February 11, 2013 at Morningside Assisted Living of Raleigh where she had been a resident for one and a half years. She was born in Colt, AR to the late John Harrison Higgs and Martha Elizabeth Higgs. After graduating from Forest City High School in 1939, she worked for Southern Bell as a switchboard operator, retiring 39 years later in a supervisory position. She was a Life Member of AT&T Pioneers. As a member of First Presbyterian Church and Tom Albright Sunday School Class, Bernadine was active as long as her health allowed. Bernadine, who will be remembered by her kind and caring ways, her beautiful smile, and her Christian beliefs, was happiest when surrounded by her family and friends.

Bernadine is predeceased by her parents, her husband, Horace A. (Gus) Harris; their son, Randall (Randy); brothers James and Edwin Higgs; and sisters Mary Ruth Higgs and Inez Higgs. She is survived by her granddaughters, Jennifer E. Harris (Adrianne) of Asheville and Brooks Harris Stevens (Jim) of Ypsilanti, Michigan; three great-grandchildren Madeline Grey Stevens, Foster James Stevens and August Marie Gordon. Beloved extended family includes Catherine Hooks Stevens and Dorothy Rosberg.

The family would like to thank Crystal Hawkins for the years she cared for Bernadine, the staff at Morningside Assisted Living of Raleigh who were exceptional in treating Bernadine with dignity and love, and Hospice of Wake County for helping Bernadine go gently and peacefully Home.

A Celebration of Life will take place Saturday, February 16, 2013 at 11 am at First Presbyterian Church, Raleigh, NC. The family will receive friends 10-11 am prior to the service at the church. Burial will follow the service at Montlawn Memorial Park.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to First Presbyterian Church, 120 W. Hargett Street, Raleigh, NC 27601; or Hospice of Wake County, 250 Hospice Circle, Raleigh, NC 27607.

Condolences may be sent to www.BrownWynne.com.