Nina Lou Harris 1929-2024

She was preceded in death by the love of her life, husband and best friend, James Berkley Harris. They were married for over 66 years when Dad passed away in 2014.

She was born Feb. 11, 1929, to Alexander Apple and Irene Petty Apple in Carthage, Tennessee.

Nina is survived by twin daughters, Susan Spain of Cortland, and Melissa Harris (John Flower) of Aurora; and was preceded in death by her son, David M. Harris.

She was grandmother to four, Daniel J.(Jennifer) Sferra Jr., and Melissa (Kelly) Hays, of Warren, and Colin (Amanda) Harris, and Jaclyn (Chad) Martin, of Weatherford, Texas. She was great-grandmother to seven, Angeline Sferra, Adelasia Sferra, Grayson Martin, Garin Martin, Hayden Martin, Harley Martin, and Blake Harris.

“When we were children, Mom put her amazing sewing skills and keen eye for fashion to work, creating some lovely dresses and play clothes for Sue and I. She also headed up my brother’s Cub Scout group (Dad handled Little League with David), and made sure Sue and I tried Girl Scouting, ballet and tap dancing. For several years my brother studied piano (I dabbled), while Sue tried her hand at guitar. We remain truly grateful for the cultural opportunities we were afforded and Mom and Dad’s desire to provide us with the best public schooling they could find. No small feat when finances were tight.

In retirement, she and Dad golfed to their heart’s content, in Sun City Center, Florida. They enjoyed the company of good friends and loved a challenging game of bridge. She remained active up until the last few years of her life, but still continued to read, take in the sun when she could, and play those ever-present crossword puzzles.

Mom loved us, protected us fiercely, supported us and helped provide a foundation for lives well lived. Her loyalty and love for her children cannot be understated.

We will miss her and think of her when the days are sunny and the geraniums bloom. Bye Mom, love you…”

(special notice)