DR. WILLIAM R. HARRIS

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. 

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