Robert Darnell Harris

Robert was born in New Hill on October 20, 1929 to the late Thomas Clifton Harris and Nellie Morris Harris. He was a member of Apex Baptist Church. Robert Darnell Harris, 85, died at home on Saturday, March 14, 2015, surrounded by family who love him and will miss him greatly.

Pa, as he was affectionately called, is survived by his wife of 62 years, Barbara, his daughters Rhonda Evrard and Pam Costilow, grandsons James and Justin Costilow, and Hamilton and Lincoln Evrard, as well as a host of extended family and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, Clifton and Nellie Harris, his brother Thomas Clifton and his sister Anna Mae.

Pa served in the military, worked for General Electric, and was a volunteer firefighter for the Town of Apex, but the true richness of his life was evident in the time and energy he invested in his family and friends. Pa could fix just about anything, and spent countless hours sharing that expertise with his four grandsons (and at least one son-in-law). He loved country music and gospel music, working in Sunday School at Apex Baptist Church, playing Rook with friends, working in the yard, and building things.

He had a warm, caring, joyful personality and always put others before himself. The love of his life was Bobbie (“Grannie,” to her grandsons) and he loved her deeply, helping to take care of her as they grew older together. Robert touched many lives with his kindness, joy, and caring, and set a great example for all of us to follow.

The family will receive friends Wednesday, March 18, 2015 at 2pm prior to the 3pm service at the Apex Funeral Home Chapel followed by interment at Apex Cemetery.

Memorials may be made to Transitions Lifecare Hospice of Wake County, 250 Hospice Circle, Raleigh, NC 27607.