She Never Met A Stranger

Doris Katherine Harris, 73, passed away on April 29, 2017, at Heartland Manor Care of Twinsburg.
Doris was born on July 28, 1943, in Washington, D.C. the 4th child of 10, to Samuel Harris, Jr and Rose. We grew up in a duel denomination household. 9 A.M. Mass and 11 A.M. Baptist Services to sing in the choir. All who knew Doris, knows how much she liked to sing and lead prayers. Doris lost her eyesight at the age of 13, becoming totally blind. She was move to a home for Girls with disabilities. There she learn to transverse a world of darkness with the greatest ease. It was almost miraculous how she adjusted. Learning to walk with counting steps, how to cook, with special equipment. She never complained or felt hindered with her blindness. As far as she was concerned she could do anything with minimal amount of assistance.

At the age of 20 she was transferred to a group home of 6 ladies. She learned how to navigate the transit system in Washington D.C. by herself. She was given a job at the Light House of the Blind. There she trained as an assembler, folding and packing home products for use by the public as well as the blind. She worked for the Light House of the Blind, for 25 years. During her time there Doris participated in an experimental surgery that she was offered to possibly restore her sight. For a while it worked, but gradually she was just left with the ability to see shadows, real bright colors, and extreme bright lights. Gradually over the past 5 years this dwindled and total darkness returned.

Later on Doris moved here to Twinsburg, Ohio to be close to her Sister. Doris joined 2nd Pilgrim Missionary Baptist Church, enjoying her new church family, praying and singing in the choir. Doris and I went on a a cruise with all of my Sister-in-Laws in 2003 (Barbados, St Lucia, Antigua, St. Maarten and St. Thomas.) I mean we walked all over each of those islands. Doris became part of the Disable Disabilities program, under the auspice of one of the best Case Mangers, Peggy Gates. She lead her to doing the Hattie Larlham Constant Companion Adult Programs. Engaging and enjoying many activities and trips. Family request in lieu of Flowers please send Donations to:
GUIDING EYES FOR THE BLIND
611 GRANITE SPRING ROAD
YORKTOWN HEIGHTS, NY 10598
1-800-942-0149