Manuel Derek Harris

In the song of life, Manuel Derek Harris was surely the composer. A very observant man who would rather spend his time creating than talking, Manuel preferred to live in a world of harmony where everything around him made sense. In fact, he depended on his sensory world to provide him with concrete data. A free spirit, Manuel believed that actions definitely spoke for themselves. He seemed to know what fit and what didn’t fit in everything he did. Manuel perceived that all of life’s possibilities were open to him, yet he lived with a definite sense of purpose. He was a man who was always ready to share his creations with those around him.

      Manuel was born on March 4, 1971 at Cumberland County Hospital in Burkesville, Kentucky. His parents were Nancy and Nick Malacaro, Mother and Step-father and William Reggie Harris (deceased). Manuel was raised in Burkesville, Kentucky. As a young child, Manuel was optimistic in his outlook. He sought out the possibilities in a given situation and looked for ways to apply his creative energies. Manuel rarely called attention to himself, but when he did speak out, his message was clearly understood by those around him.

      Early on in his family relationships, Manuel showed that he was a tolerant and flexible person, and he got along fairly well with everyone. He was raised with two siblings. He had twin brothers, Michael and Mitchell Harris. He was a calm and playful child who was adaptable to any situation but if pushed to the limit, could have a dandy temper. His dad nicknamed him Thumper because when he woke up to go to the bathroom in the morning he "thumped" through the house.

      As he was growing up, Manuel developed into a person who enjoyed physically doing things, and he took pleasure in using his hands in order to create. Whether it was drawing pictures, working with building kits, or even just tapping out a rhythm to play by, Manuel liked concrete things. In his spare time he liked to ride his 3-wheeler and dirt bike. He enjoyed bowling and fishing. He loved nature and the outdoors. However, to Manuel, the most fun he had was simply playing, and spending time with friends.

His favorite cartoons were Scooby Doo and Mighty Mouse. He loved Star Trek and his favorite was Buck Rogers. He once got to see the actor Gil Gerard that played Buck Rogers and bragged all over school that his mom got kissed by Buck Rogers.

      Early on in his school years, Manuel showed an interest in learning, especially when it came to subjects in the arts. At times, school learning did not provide Manuel with sufficient challenges, but being an avid reader, he could often be “lost in a book” well above his grade level. His passion for fine arts was so keen that fellow students and even his teachers recognized it. He graduated from Cumberland County High School in 1989. He enjoyed some courses more than others, having favorite classes and teachers. He loved to learn so he loved all his classes. The teacher he enjoyed learning from the most was Sharon Davis. He graduated with honors.

      In college, Manuel showed that he was able to focus on what was necessary. He found it quite easy to dive headlong into classes, especially those that truly interested him. Using his understanding of language, Manuel was able to move comfortably through a wide variety of courses. Manuel’s ability to assemble highly creative projects became second nature to him. Because of his great passion for others and his desire to provide a good life for his son, he earned his Associate of Science in Nursing from Walter State in 2005.

      Those who didn’t know Manuel well might not view him as being an outgoing person, those who called him their friend knew differently. Manuel was shy and sensitive, a person who never forced his opinions and values on others. Close friends knew that his kindness was unmatched, and once you became a friend of Manuel’s, you understood how true a friend he could be. While growing up, some of his best friends were Perry Dean Scott, Jeremy Wright and Patrick Brown. Later in life, he became best friends with Ricky Pickens, Jackie Scott and "June Bug".

      A person who was sensitive to others’ feelings, modest and tolerant, Manuel had the ability to become completely devoted to another when that affection was returned. On August 29, 2005 Manuel exchanged wedding vows with his life partner Teresa Jane Marshall at the Park Plaza Hotel in New Orleans, Louisiana. After taking a short break, they were remarried on February 7, 2009 at Patriot Park in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee.

      Manuel was exceptionally sympathetic and compassionate when it came to his son Nicholas. These emotional bonds made him as much playmate as parent. He gave his family unconditional love and kindness. Manuel was blessed with one child, Nicholas Andrew and one grandson, Cameron Alex Kaale.

      Manuel found ways to enjoy what he did for a living. He worked hard and did his best to succeed every day. His primary occupation was Registered Nurse. At the time of his death, he was employed for NHC Fort Sanders in Knoxville, Tennessee. Manuel tended to be a team player, doing what was necessary in order to get the job done without imposing his will on others. He patient's referred to him fondly as Manny.

      Manuel enjoyed his leisure time by taking part in various hobbies. His favorite pursuits were motorcycling, traveling, snorkeling and listening to music. He also enjoyed various video games including Chicken Invaders. Manuel was content to enjoy his hobbies alone but was also willing to share his interests with others. He was relaxed in his approach to his leisure time because he wanted to savor the present moment.

      Manuel liked Martial Arts. His favorite recreational sports included fishing and bowling. Manuel was also something of a sports fan and enjoyed following his favorite events whenever he got the opportunity. Top on his list was wrestling.

      Manuel’s faith was important to him. Manuel was very spiritual and could tell you anything about the Bible. He loved to hear his son Nicholas say the blessing every evening at dinner. Manuel's passionate commitment to upholding his values placed him at home in his religion, where he took comfort in the company of others who believed as he did.

      Because he loved the world around him, Manuel enjoyed traveling and going away on vacations. It was an opportunity for him to kick back and relax, to visit new places and experience new things. Manuel put his personal trademark on any leisure planning that he undertook. Favorite vacations included a Caribbean cruise to Cozumel and Costa Maya, a trip to New York City to see the Phantom of the Opera, and a trip to Universal Studios.

      Manuel was a lover of animals and cherished his pets. Some of Manuel’s favorites was Deidre, a Wolfe/German Shepherd; Taffy, a German Shepherd/Wolfe, and Sir Maxwell Harris, a Yorkshire Terrier. His family was rounded out by his Sugar Gliders, Gizmo and Gazette.

      Manuel passed away on June 19, 2009 at his home in Knoxville, Tennessee. Manuel had a heart attack on May 28, 2009 after which he had two operations for stint placements. On the morning of June 19th, he died peacefully in his sleep. He is survived by his wife, Teresa Marshall-Harris, a son, Nicholas A. Harris, 3 step-children, James Sweatman, Ashley Kaale and James Adam Letner. Mother Nancy Malacaro, Step-father Nick Malacaro, Brothers Michael and Mitchell Harris, Step Brothers Christopher and William Harris and Tony Malacaro. Brother-in-Law and Sister-in-Law David and Kimberly Strey. Niece and Nephew Michael and Tricia Harris and a host of other nieces and nephews, friends and family members. Services were held at Weaver's Funeral Home, Knoxville, Tennessee. Manuel's ashes will remain at home with Teresa, his wife and soul mate until her death at which time they will be joined together.

      Manuel was a good hearted man, with a kind soul, and a practical man who will for all time be remembered by his family and friends as being warm and deeply caring. He leaves behind him a treasury of life-long friendships and wonderful memories. Manuel always had much to give and was able to make those connections in his life where his gifts were appreciated. Manuel was a faithful, practical and loving person. Everyone whose life he touched will always remember Manuel Derek Harris.