Luel Monroe Harris

Luel Monroe "Barney" Harris, age 97, of Montgomery, Alabama passed away peacefully at home on Saturday, February 26, 2022. Luel was born in Sylacauga, Alabama on May 30, 1924 to Eppie Saxon Harris and Houston Harris. He left Sylacauga at age 18 to join the US Army Air Corps. He was assigned to the Pacific theater, serving as a gunner on the crew of a B 29 bomber and flying many missions for the duration of World War II. Later, Luel transferred to the newly created US Air Force where he ultimately achieved the rank of Master Sergeant. Luel served as purser on many special flights overseas, serving dignitaries such as Gen. Dwight D. Eisenhower. After disability cut his military career short, Luel moved his family to Montgomery, AL where he worked for the US Postal Service until retirement. At the same time, Luel worked a second job as bookkeeper for Acme TV Service. He enjoyed retirement, golfing with his brother Woodie Harris, serving as Grand Knight of the Knights of Columbus, and spending time with his grandchildren.

Luel was a deeply devoted husband to his wife of 70 years, Penelope Evans Harris, who preceded him in death. He is also preceded in death by his parents and his seven brothers and sisters. He is survived by his sons Jeffery Harris (Glenda), James Harris and Joseph Harris (Tina), and his daughters Barbara Osman (Richard), Shelly Reeves and Teresa Harris. He also leaves to cherish his memories 16 grandchildren and great grandchildren.

A visitation for Luel will be held Sunday, March 6, from 5:30p.m. to 7:00 at Leak Memory Chapel, 945 Lincoln Road, Montgomery, AL 36109.

A Rosary and Funeral Mass will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Monday, March 7, 2022 at St. Bede Catholic Church, 3870 Atlanta Hwy, Montgomery, AL 36109. Burial will follow at Oakwood - St. Margaret's Cemetery. Grandsons will serve as pallbearers.

In lieu of flowers memorials can be made to EWTN or to the Montgomery Humane Shelter.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.Leak-MC.com for the Harris family.