M. Louise Harris

     M. Louise Harris, affectionately known as "ZeeZack," passed away peacefully at the age of 98 in the early morning hours of Wednesday, March 19, 2025, in Jersey Shore, PA. 

     She was born on May 25, 1926, in Williamsport, PA, to parents William A. Harris and Ina O. Harris. Louise attended the Jersey Shore School District throughout her primary and secondary education, graduating from Jersey Shore Senior High in 1944. She began her post-secondary education at Willamette University, where she studied for two years before transferring closer to home. She completed her Bachelor of Arts in Social Science at Lycoming College in 1952. 

     Later, she earned her certification in secondary education from Lock Haven University in 1956 and, in 1975, her certification in elementary library science. Louise had a diverse and impactful career in education. She initially served as the Superintendent of Lycoming County Special Education at the Courthouse, where she taught a special education class on a temporary certificate for one year. She then moved to Turlock, California, to teach ninth-grade English from 1957 to 1959. Her career took her to the Griswold School Department in Connecticut, where she taught bookkeeping and typing before transitioning to teaching English and history at the Central Dauphin School District. Eventually, she returned to her hometown of Williamsport, PA, where she worked at the James V. Brown Library until her retirement.

     Louise was preceded in death by her parents and siblings: brothers David and Calvin, and sisters Ruth and Marguerite. Though she never married, she cherished her role as an aunt to many nieces and nephews, who, in turn, blessed her with great-nieces, great-nephews, and even great-great-nieces and nephews. Her great-nieces fondly remember her as a second grandmother, always eager for her visits, especially in hopes of sharing a new book. Through these moments, she instilled in them a deep love of reading. They also hold dear memories of her buckwheat pancakes and Ovaltine drinks after school. Louise loved them as her own, and they adored her in return. She will be deeply missed, but her loved ones take comfort in knowing she is reunited with her family.

     A passionate and politically engaged individual, Louise followed current events closely and in recent years, enjoyed listening to President Trump, Sean Hannity, and Tucker Carlson. She was also a generous donor to numerous political organizations, as well as charitable causes such as St. Jude’s and Tunnels to Towers. Beyond her professional and political interests, Louise loved skiing, gardening, and playing card games. While she valued healthy eating—often having celery and peanut butter on hand—she also had a fondness for sweets. 

     She found great joy in traveling, particularly during her stays with her sister Ruth and brother-in-law Milt in both California and Germany. The family would like to extend heartfelt thanks to Pat Laubach, or “Maddie” to Louise, for her dedicated care and companionship in Louise’s final years. Her presence provided immense comfort and support.

     A graveside service to honor and celebrate Louise’s life will be held at Jersey Shore Cemetery on Wednesday, March 26, at 11:30 AM. Funeral arrangements are entrusted to Frederick B. Welker Funeral Home in Jersey Shore.

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