Mr. Robert Lee Harris

Mr. Robert Lee Harris was called to Eternal Rest, March 5, 2012 at Borgess Medical Center surrounded by his loving family. He was born October 25, 1936 in Talbotton, Georgia the son of Frank Harris and Mattie Harris. Robert was affectionately called "Jackie" or "Joe Louis" by many. Robert diligently served his country in the United States Army from 1955 to 1958. Robert married Barbara Bloodworth, (which ended in divorce), and to this union one child was born (Paulette Harris. Robert accepted Christ at a young age. Robert loved reading and studying God's Word. He also had devotion to and cared for "the young people". He always wanted to give young people something to do. Robert often organized summer vacation bible school right from his home or LaCrone Park, to name a few locations. All of the young people looked forward to the big barbeque he would throw for them at the end of the summer session. Robert was a devoted member of Bethel Star Community Church of God In Christ, under the leadership of Pastor Hermon Phillips (Elder Samuel Baker, Pastor Emeritus). Robert was known throughout the Kalamazoo area for his exceptional culinary skills. He loved to cook! Robert was the sole proprietor of several restaurants in Kalamazoo. Among Robert's restaurants was the "Crow's Nest", where everyone came to enjoy his ribs and where he created his famous "Jackie Burger". Robert was preceded in death by his parents; six brothers; and two sisters. He leaves to mourn his devoted daughters, Brenda (Eric) Bell of Houston, Texas, Angela (Louis Lee) Middlebrooks and Paulette Harris both of Kalamazoo, MI; one brother, Charlie Harris of Kalamazoo; one sister, Catherine Dungey of Jacksonville, Florida; a dear friend and caregiver of ten years, Sara Hughes; a special son Johnny Lee; six grandchildren: Tansy, Michelle, Sharod, Shemar ("Hotrod"), Nicole and Crystal; eight great-grandchildren; two sister-in-laws, Gracie Harris and Annie Bloodworth both of Kalamazoo, MI; two special friends, Eugene Thompson (Hickey) and Michelle Lee both of Kalamazoo, MI; a very special family: Clyde Middlebrooks, Cheryl, Bayons, Jeffery and Andre all of Thomaston, Georgia; Pastor (Emeritus) and Mrs. Samuel Baker; Pastor and Mrs. Hermon Phillips and a host of cousins, nieces, nephews, his Bethel Star church family and friends.

Mr. Robert Lee Harris

October 25, 1936 - March 5, 2012