DR. WILLIAM R. HARRIS
November 11, 1941 ~ October 20, 2019
Dr. William Robert Harris was born on November 11, 1941 in San Antonio, TX. He was the second of six children born to Eddie L. Harris, Jr. and Johnnie Bateman Harris. He was a proud graduate of Brackenridge High School in 1959 and received his Bachelors of Arts in Biology degree from St. Mary’s University on May 26, 1963 and his medical degree from University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio in May of 1976. Throughout his career, he became a beacon of hope in his community by practicing medicine as a local Psychiatrist. He helped treat thousands of patients through several positions throughout the history of his career. Immediately preceding his transition, he continued to diligently work in his passion and area of expertise at the San Antonio State Hospital.
Beyond his professional life, he was a great family man. On February 20, 1965, William married the love of his life, Brenda J. Christian. To this union two children were born, Steven and Stacie. He valued education and was a catalyst in helping his children chase and conquer both academic and personal goals.
Along with serving the community at large, William was formally a member of the C.A. Whittier Medical Society, National Medical Association and Van Courtlandt Social Club. He was also a proud life time member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. William was a member of the United States Army Reserve, where he received a number of awards during his years of service to include the National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Campaign Medal w/60 Device, Bronze Star Vietnam Service Medal, Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal, O/S Bar (1) Expert Badge M-14 w/Rifle Bar, Expert Badge M-16 w/Rifle Bar. William honorably served as Captain, Medical Logistician, Medical Service Corps, U.S. Army. His years of service spanned from December 1966-August 1971.
William is preceded in death by his wife, Brenda J. Harris, his parents, Eddie L. Harris, Jr. and Johnnie Bateman Harris and his brother’s Rev. Eddie L. Harris, III and wife, Edna Harris and Sidney Lamar Harris and wife, Ida M. Harris.
Left to cherish his abundant memories are his children, son, Steven M. Harris (Tara), daughter, Dr. Stacie R. Harris Koonhow (Dirk), Grandsons, Kaden Harris Koonhow and Brendan Christian Koonhow, Brothers John Harris (Corine), Bruce Harris (Jackie) and Michael Harris (Rosemary) and Brother-in-law, Sister-in-laws, nieces, nephews, cousins and a host of relatives and friends.
Services
Interment: November 4, 2019 2:30 pm - August 26, 2025 2:33 pm
Fort Sam Houston National CemeteryView current weather.
Memories Timeline
Guestbook
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A Purple Radiance was ordered on October 30, 2019
Love you Dad. God has called you home to rest and accept your reward of being a faithful servant. We will always miss you and will remain in our hearts fore ever more â™¥ï¸ We continue on in your legacy…
Dr Harris you were a gift to the health care profession. You were a amazing therapist who cared about your clients. Your dedication and servanthood will never be forgotten. I honor. Thank you! Rest well sir!
A Large Dish Garden was ordered on October 31, 2019
A Small Basket Garden was sent on November 1, 2019
Rest in Peace, Dr. Harris.
With love from Dr. Floretta Jones and Family
Our deepest sympathy to the Harris family. May God hold you close and provide the comfort and guidance to all during this difficult time.
To the Family of Dr. Harris. Words Can not explain how you all are feeling. You all do have my Condolences. When i first started working at San Antonio State Hospital-Crockett Hall in August 20I8 had the opportunity to meet and see Dr. Harris. I had just seen him standing by the gate after i heard about his passing. RIP. God has you. Ms. Claudette V. Zeno-Housekeeper-San Antonio State Hospital.
This man has been my very dear friend since 1988. There is not another one like him and I feel a deep.lose in his passing. We shared stories about our families, our hopes and dreams for them, and to look after them. I learned so much from this man sharing our thoughts and dreams and I realized what a magnificent mind and heart for othes he had. He was nuturer for so many. with a possitive force.. I put his integrity up their with my parents. I do know that Bill even the day before he passed away showed the immence joy from our Lord Jesus Christ. He is a friend, fellow Veteran, and fellow Officer. I salute you!Â
Billy and Joley, childhood friends, how poignant that they are now together in death only four days apart. May the memories of your loved one ease the pain you feel in your heart. My sincerest sympathy.
Dr. Bill was a man of the World and he will be remembered by my wife and I forever, as a compassionate, loving, kind, learned man and the most reliable neighbor we have ever had in our life. He was a Godly man, a family man and a man that was of Christ, with a smile ever present on his kind face. No matter what the challenge was, he could find a solution. Blessed are those that new him, because they saw Christ in him!
Falling asleep in the Lord is a Blessing as I know he is with his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ of Nazareth. We will miss our good neighbor, God rest his soul, Albert & Tanya!
My husband, daughter, and myself are the neighbors behind Bill’s house. He and Brenda were always so friendly with us. Our daughter is severely handicapped and loves her evening walks in her wheelchair. Bill made a point of stopping to talk with us as he was driving in from work and we were walking with Natalie. We looked forward to talking with him! God bless his soul!