Charles F. Harris

Charles was born June 23, 1937, in Springfield, the son of Frank and Margaret Sullivan Harris. He married Mary Lou Mehlick on August 29, 1959, in Springfield.

Charles was a graduate of Cathedral Boys’ School and earned a Bachelor of Education from Western Illinois University. He spent his career as a teacher and coach at Hartsburg/Emden High School and Tri-City High School. Charles was a member of the Illinois Education Association, National Education Association, and Tri-City Education Association. He was honored to be named “Friend of the County” by the Sangamon County Principals’ Association in January 2014. Charles was a member of St. James Catholic Church in Riverton. He enjoyed gardening, golfing, playing cards, watching the Chicago Cubs, and spending time with his family. He was a loving husband, devoted father and proud grandfather.

He was preceded in death by his parents and brothers, William, Frank, Jr., James “Jake” and J. Michael Harris.

Charles is survived by his wife, Mary Lou; six children, Charles (Julie) Harris, Jr. of Isle of Palms, SC; Cindy Harris of Bloomington, Christy (Mark) Lemak of Homewood, AL, Carrie (Joe, Jr.) Ross of Springfield, Cathy (David) Wittenauer of Columbia, IL, and Cheryl Churchill of Springfield; eleven grandchildren, Trey (fiancée, Abby McLaughlin) Harris of Springfield, Neil Harris of Bloomington, Maggie Lemak of Chicago and Evan Lemak of Homewood, AL, David Ross of Washington, D.C., Carly and Kate Ross, both of Springfield, Andrew Wittenauer of Chicago, Erin Wittenauer of Columbia, IL, and Samantha and Jack Churchill, both of Springfield; one brother, Robert (Margaret) Harris of Springfield; and several nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Visitation and Funeral Mass: The family will receive friends from 9:00 a.m. until 10:45 a.m. on Thursday, July 1, 2021, at St. James Catholic Church, 112 N. Sixth St., Riverton. Funeral Mass will follow at 11:00 a.m. with Rev. Raphael Paul DeMoreno celebrant.

Private family burial will follow at Calvary Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be made to St. James Catholic Church, P.O. Box 590, Riverton, IL 62561-0590.

The family is being served by Butler Funeral Home-Springfield, 900 S. 6th St., Springfield, IL.