Mrs. Patricia Ann Harris

Patricia Ann Harris, affectionately known to close friends and family as “Patsy” or “Granny” by her beloved grandchildren made her transition from labor to reward on June 12, 2012 quietly in her Ft. Lauderdale home after a valiant battle with pancreatic cancer. Born in Salisbury, North Carolina on October 9, 1943 the only daughter of Roy Lee Harris and Ruth Ann Farr, Patsy was known to be a Daddy’s girl to those who knew her. She was raised by her dad and his sisters, Annie Mae & Lillie Harris. She attended St. Elizabeth H.S. a Catholic boarding school in Chicago, which she called home. At age 9, her father welcomed her brother Terence Christopher Harris to the family, officially making her a big sister. Always the character, she would tell many stories of how she “took care” of her little brother, with an accidental drop on the head or two while in her charge when they were kids. Luckily he turned out ok! In 1960, she married the late Walter McNeal and gave birth to her first daughter, Reniese Lillian McNeal in September 1961, followed by Sheilisa Yvette in February 1966 and Denee Yolanda in February 1970. Her three girls were her legacy and she was determined to raise them to be strong, independent women who understood the importance of family and self sufficiency. Patsy worked as an administrative assistant most of her life and believed that as long as a woman could type she could get a job. She ended her work life after eight years of service at Pearson Vue where she worked as a test administrator. She also enjoyed traveling, playing bid whist with girlfriends & listening to music. Her children and grandchildren have a love for “dusties” as they are known in Chicago because of her music preferences. On any day while listening to Marvin Gaye singing ”Distant Lover” Pat would say with her signature facial expression “Oh, that’s my song!” Memories like these make her unforgettable. Patsy (Granny) is survived by her three daughters, Reniese, Sheilisa & Denee and son’s in-law, Steve, Bruce & Cliff. Eight grandchildren, Quamiesh, Jenita, Kiera, Trevor, Geri, Jacori, Javion, Jadea and ten great-grandchildren; Jenia, Aaron, Sheilisa, Devaughn, Jaden, Darius, Aiden, Daryl, Amare & Daania. Her brother Terence, best friend Rose Saulsby, soulmate Howard Echols and a host of nieces, cousins, friends and co-workers. She will be laid to rest next to her father, Roy Lee Harris at the Rosedale Cemetery in Linden, NJ on Monday, June 25th. Most importantly she will be missed by all who knew her, but forgotten by none. We love you Patsy, Granny and we will see you again soon.

Mrs. Patricia Ann Harris

October 9, 1943 - June 12, 2012