Serena A Harris

Serena Harris was born on January 21, 1942, in Sparta, Wisconsin. She passed away peacefully on August 4th, 2024 surrounded by her loving family. She was the cherished daughter of Frieda Elizabeth Gerke.

Serena graduated from Tomah High School in Wisconsin in 1960 and went on to earn a Bachelor of Sociology from the University of Wisconsin Eau Claire in 1964. Her career as a social worker in Waukesha and Minneapolis showcased her dedication to improving the lives of those in need. Later, she found her true calling as a volunteer and then a full-time aide to special needs children in Beavercreek Public Schools, where she was honored as Volunteer of the Year.

A devoted member of Resurrection Evangelical Lutheran Church in Centerville, Ohio, Serena's commitment to her community and faith was evident in every aspect of her life. She had a generous spirit and a heart full of love, known for her passion for animals and her support of organizations dedicated to their welfare. Serena spoiled her pets and found joy in giving gifts to others, always thinking of others, and often sending cards to loved ones. An avid sports fan, she was a die-hard Green Bay Packers supporter and a proud stockholder of the team.

Serena is survived by her beloved husband, Glen Harris of Beavercreek, Ohio; her daughter, Christy VanSickle (James) of Wooster, Ohio; her son, Nicholas Harris of Denver, Colorado; and her fur daughter, Mandy, of Beavercreek, Ohio. She is also survived by her cousin, Charlotte Benson of Minneapolis, Minnesota; her brothers, Gary Zellmer of Marshfield, Wisconsin, and Dewayne Zellmer of Tampa, Florida; her goddaughter, Kathy Perham of Anchorage, Alaska; and her stepchildren, Lynne Harris Zajac, Leslie Harris Runion, and David Harris, all of Raleigh, North Carolina.

Serena legacy of compassion, service, and love will be remembered by all who knew her. She will be deeply missed by her family, friends, and the countless lives she touched throughout her life.

A memorial service will be held on Friday, August 16th at Resurrection Evangelical Lutheran Church in Centerville, Ohio, to celebrate her life and honor her memory. Visitation will begin at 1pm with a short service to follow at 2pm. A streaming option will be made available. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to SICSA Pet Adoption and Wellness Center of Dayton, Ohio or the Special Olympics.

Resurrection Evangelical Lutheran Church

1315 E Alex Bell Rd, Washington Township, OH 45459 https://daytonwels.org/

Pastor Joel Voss