Dear Harris Family - From my early childhood I remember being able to figure out that both Dr. and Mrs. Harris were special people because of how genuinely kind they were to my parents who at the time were still new immigrants. Sincere condolences from the Gilbert family and may memories of Lileah be a comfort to you now and forever.
Lena Gilbert
May 18, 2014
Dear Harris Family,
We are so sorry to hear about the passing of Lileah. We did not know her personally, but are fortunate to count Bruce and Marc as dear friends. Having read the articles about Lileah, we can't help but feel humbled at what an amazing and full life she led. She really left her mark in a very positive way on this world--something we should all aspire to do.
You and your family are in our thoughts and prayers.
Sincerely, Don Vincent and John Hohneker
Don Vincent and John Hohneker
May 16, 2014
Dear Harris Family,
We are so sorry to hear about the passing of Lileah. We did not know her personally, but are fortunate to count Bruce and Marc as dear friends. Having read the articles about Lileah, we can't help but feel humbled at what an amazing and full life she led. She really left her mark in a very positive way on this world--something we should all aspire to do.
You and your family are in our thoughts and prayers.
Sincerely, Don Vincent and John Hohneker
Don Vincent and John Hohneker
May 16, 2014
Anne,
I am so sorry about the loss of your mom. I remember her always for the kindness that she showed to me as a child. All of these years later, I still remember how I felt valued when I was in your home. Your mom had a true grace and a generosity of spirit that few have. I was not aware of all the advocacy work that she did in her life. I was reminded of something that I once read - "I am only one; but still I am one. I cannot do everything; but still I can do something. And because I cannot do everything, I will not refuse to do the something that I can do. " (E.E. Hale) Because of your mom's unfailing and unflinching sense of justice, she was able to touch many lives, effect change and make the world a slightly better place to live. She touched my life as well - and I will always remember her with a smile. I extend my deepest sympathy to you, your father, your brother's and sister's and to the entire Harris family.
Deborah Salat
May 15, 2014
Rest in peace, my friend, we will all miss you! To the family, your mothers passion, and love for all, her dedication, to justice, and the very principles,will serves long after your gone.
The foundation has been layered in love. She was a friend...
Slayton Thompson
May 15, 2014
I went to school in the class between the twins and Mark. I always was impressed with how Mr and Mrs. Harris were able to raise such a large family, and be so involved in the community, as well. I couldn't imagine how they did it, but I suspect it was one day at a time, but with an eye on the future. Our deepest sympathies to the Harris family. May your memory of Mrs Harris bring you peace and comfort.
Scott Gasway
May 14, 2014
It was my privilege to become acquainted with Lileah upon moving to Cedar Rapids 31 years ago. She and I were both appointed to a school board committee and became friends. I admired her graciousness, her intelligence and her commitment to the community ... she seems quite irreplaceable to me. I hope to see BJ soon as we were already acquaintances before we arrived in Cedar Rapids. We are long overdue for that lunch date, B.J!
My heart is with the entire family as you cope with this great loss.
Blessings, Nancylee
Nancylee Ziese
May 14, 2014
Dr Harris and family, It is with great sorrow that I am writing this. I am truly sorry to hear of the loss of your wife, mother and friend. She will be greatly missed. She was always so kind and had a nice word for everyone she met and spoke to. She had a long and fruitful life and it was so inspiring to read about all of her accomplishments. She will no longer have to suffer and she is in a better place. Unfortunately I will not be able to attend the service, but she will be remembered forever in my thoughts. She will be looking out for each and every one of you. I will have all of you in my prayers.
Imelda Collins
May 14, 2014
It was a number of years ago that I had occasion to meet Lileah, that gracious and wonderful woman who impressed me with her warmth and strength. Matthew, you may remember having a few voice lessons with me some time back. Your mom made a lasting impression on me from that visit. I was dealing with cancer recovery and single parenting and she made me feel as though I could make it through. I did. My heartfelt condolences to you all.
Marie von Behren
Marie von Behren
May 13, 2014
Percy, Betty Jean and all the Harris and Fergerson families: Please know my most heartfelt thoughts are with you. I still think so often of those days long ago and summers on the farm in Fort Madison and trips in my Uncle Harry's Cadillac to Waterloo. And I remember how gracious Percy and Lee were to welcome my brother Charles by hosting a big dinner in Iowa when he became Bishop of the United Methodist Church there. I'm so glad I have known each of you, whether by name only or personally.. Love, Anna Jordan Hicks
Anna (Jeanne) Jordan Hicks
May 13, 2014
It is with great sadness that I write this note. I had hoped to get to Iowa to see you and how quickly the years passed by! I regret not being there to see everyone and to share a few precious moments. My deepest sympathy and best wishes to you all....Virginia
Virginia Butters Simpson
May 13, 2014
Dr. Harris and family, on behalf of my mother Minnie Knox, my sister Rhonda, my brothers Bryant, Darryl and Jay, and with the memory of my late father, John Knox, I would like to extend our most sincere condolences of your most dear and precious loss. I pray that your faith will keep you strong. That God will ease your pain, and your memories will keep you smiling. Carletta Knox-Seymour
Carletta Knox-Seymour
May 13, 2014
Dr. Harris and all of Lileah's wonderful children.
What can one say about a life so well lived. Exactly that. She was a great example of motherhood, citizenship, community leadership and wife. She was one of those people who spoke softly, but with conviction. If we had more people like her in this world...........
It was such a pleasure for me to speak to many of you at the visitation. I'm so proud that I knew most of you children when you were young. I have so many fond memories of you and I'm so proud to see what you've become. I know you have brought much pleasure and pride to your parents, too.
Dr. Harris....... you and Lileah created a wonderful legacy. You created opportunities for your children to learn and spread their wings. What better thing can be said about two people. I was proud and happy to call you my Dr. for 30 years from the time we arrived in Cedar Rapids in 1968. And I'm still proud that I've known such a wonderful man and doctor. And Dr. Harris, I will do what you ask. I will pray for you.
I hope that time will heal the pain of the past 2+ years and you'll remember the wonderful memories.
Peace, strength and love to each and every one of you.
Marva (Ashford) Livengood
May 13, 2014
Dr. Harris and family,
I was in Cedar Rapids this weekend visiting my Mother and read of Lileah passing on to a more peaceful place.I wish you all strength in the days,weeks and months ahead;it is not easy;nor has it been.
We talked about a lot of things as we visited over the weekend but would often return to the Harris family,my Mother's memory rich with knowledge and tales of an ongoing neighborhood institution...
Midwest families are often remarkable stories about a grounded set of values and the fortitude to stand by them;and in turn pass them to the next generation.Your partner, and the Mother of such a wonderful bunch of kids ,is a centerpiece for that narrative.
My Mother, and all of us ,are saddened and sorry for your loss.She is doing good but doesn't get around very much;know that her thoughts and best wishes are with all of you.
Hug each other a lot;crying is good too
All my best,
Rick
Rick Barber
May 13, 2014
To the Harris Family from the Blair Family
I'm writing on behalf of my sisters and brother and with the memory of our late parents, Lou and Ernestine Blair. We were all aware of the honor and pleasure of having Percy and Lileah Harris choose to make their home in Cedar Rapids. Through connections at St Luke's, St Paul's, Washington HS, the Linn County Democrats and a few shared birthday and anniversary parties in CR and Iowa City, we were always happy to see you and proud to call you friends. Our condolences and best wishes to you all. With love from
Ginny Blair Iowa City
Alice Blair Riley, Indianola IA,
Mary Blair Moser San Francisco CA,
John Blair, Hebron NH,
Yasmina Vinci Manning, Washington DC
Ginny Blair
May 13, 2014
Dr. Harris and family, Extending my sympathy to each of you at this time of grief. May comforting words , prayers, shared memories and support from family and friends aid you through this difficult time. Remembering our neighborhood connection through our children(lots of hide and seek games!) will always be a special memory. How honored we all are to have had our life touched by such a wonderful and caring Lileah. Jean Farmer
Jean Farmer
May 13, 2014
Dear Percy and Family,
We go back many years and Pauline and I recall what a lovely and caring person Evelyn was. Although you two had 5 more children than we did, both you and Evelyn always asked about the kids and whenever we had the opportunity to see you, you were always so kind to all of us. We felt like you two were family.
To read about her life is truly inspirational and her accomplishments are remarkable. She was (is) a very special wife, mother and friend.
Percy, may God bless you and your family and we pray that God will look over each of you at this time and the unity and strength of family and friends will somehow ease the loss of your beloved Evelyn.
We love you, Percy.
Keever and Pauline
Keever and Pauline Davis
May 13, 2014
It is with deep sorrow that we heard of you lovely spouse passing. We express our deepest admiration for an exceptional mother and exceptional human been as Lileah has been Honored to have encounter her in our lives
.We shell never forget Her and we express our sorrow to our friend Percy and all of the children.
You will be in our thought and prayers.
With love
Ronald and Gloria Egli from Weslaco (TX)
Ronald and Gloria Egli
May 13, 2014
Dear Harris family - I have had the pleasure of not only working with David but being able to call him friend for a few years now. I have enjoyed listening to the wonderful stories, accomplishments and joys of the family. I was so sorry to hear of Lileah's passing as I know what a great loss this is for the family. As I know the angels in heaven are singing and welcoming home such a beautiful soul.....I pray her spirit will forever shine through all of you, her children, and the great love so joyfully shared with Percy be forever passed through generations to come. God bless each of you...
Jeremiah 8:18
18 You who are my Comforter in sorrow
Amy Goldsberry
May 13, 2014
Peter...Cindy and I are so sorry for the passing of your mom....she was a most amazing person and any time we got together at your house i always enjoyed her gentle kindness and maybe even a sandwich or two. You and your family are in our thoughts and prayers. Your mom has found the peace that we all seek and has come home to the Father.
dave and cindy mcmickle
May 13, 2014
I knew Lileah at St. Paul's Preschool when she brought the children to class. She was a very patient mother! We also sat numerous times at Mother's meetings for school since we had children the same ages. I remember also that I voted at St. Paul's church when the decision was made about the property and I was elated that it was a "Yes". My one thought about Lileah was that she was a BEAUTIFUL woman, both inside and out. My sympathies to Dr. Harris and all the family.
Virginia
Virginia Pugh
May 12, 2014
Dear Dr. Harris, Mark and Lileah's 11 other children. I am so sorry for your loss. Your wife and mom was an amazing women, but you all already know that. One of the many benefits of living in Cedar Rapids was getting to know Lileah Harris, not only as my friend's mom, but as a tireless community leader. I enjoyed teasing her about how she some how was still sane after raising 12 kids (as a mother of three I was only 1/2 joking), and she liked teasing me about being Mark's first girlfriend. I remember having dinner at the same table with Lileah and Dr. Harris at a fund raiser at my parents (I think for the African American Museum) and she was looking forward to an upcoming trip they were taking to Europe. I think Switzerland but I could be wrong about where in Europe. That is how I like to remember Lileah, looking forward to what lays ahead. I remember once talking to Lileah about the turmoil surrounding Bob Armstrong's facilitation of the sale of the land to build the family home. Your mom wasn't bitter, and focused on the narrow minded bigots who came around and had their eyes opened with time, and on the people who were welcoming from the beginning, and not those who held on to their open bigotry. I know I would not have been as forgiving, I'm still not as forgiving, and I didn't live it, I was just told about it by my parents. She preferred to see the good in people, even when it would have required a microscope, stronger than the one Lileah uses in the pathology lab, to find anything redeeming. The world is a much better place because of Lileah, not only because she raised 12 amazing children, and Lileah lives on in her children, but for all the people she touched through out her life. Your mom lived an incredible life and made the world a better place. I hope you are all able to find comfort in knowing how loved Lileah is by so many people. Sara Riley
Sara Riley
May 12, 2014
Percy & Family May GOD BLESS you at this time. I am so sorry Lileah is gone home but I am at peace
knowing that she lived a good life, fought the good battle and now is at reward. Now that HE WHO DOES ALL THINGS WELL is with her now. Dear family keep the faith when you have to go to that place
in the early morning, late night or mid day to grieve for her, know that she is well now, and waiting for you. My prayers are with you all!
Owen
Owen T. Sloan
May 12, 2014
I did not know Mrs. Harris personally but would sometimes see her and Dr. Harris
around Cedar Rapids. They were such a presence and such a beautiful couple that
I would smile and say hello. I always say there are angels walking around the
earth masquerading as people and Mrs. Harris was definitely one of them. You should
all be so proud of her and what she did to make the world a better place. After all
that is why we are here. What beautiful Soul she was.
Mary Kanz
May 12, 2014
Dr. Harris, Matt, and Family,
I am sorry for your loss. I was Matt's class mate at Erskine and Washington, and CCD classes at All Saints. I remember Mrs. Harris as being one of the cool moms. I know she was our class mom at least once, can't remember which year. I feel blessed for having known her even a little. I hope you are comforted by family, friends and wonderful memories . Thank you, Teresa Martinek
Teresa Martinek
May 12, 2014
Dr. Harris and family -
What a legacy your wife and mother has left. A faithful churchgoer, a loving mother, a passionate citizen, a strong woman, an endearing personality. I have known your family since my Erskine grade school days. (sister Lileah was a classmate) Lileah was always welcoming, friendly and approachable. I will never forget when my oldest entered Washington High School and I decided to attend my first PTA meeting. It was bittersweet and intimidating...my baby was entering high school. TIme was passing too quickly. And who greets me at the door of the meeting room? Lileah. SHe smiled and asked, "Diane, what are you doing here?" I explained my son had just started his freshmen year. I then asked, "Better yet, what are you doing here?" She said, "my youngest is a student here at Wash." Wow. Full circle. Here she was. Her 12th child was in high school and she was still as involved and as engaged as if it were her first. She reassured me that it was important as a parent to be active in PTA. What a role model for me and the other moms! And I must address the love story that is Dr. Harris and Lileah. My office faces the gardens outside Mercy Medical Center. On beautiful suny days, Dr. Harris would wheel Lileah outside. from her room in Hallmar. I witnessed his unconditional, never-ending love for Lileah. He would hold her hand, kiss her forehead, read to her, and sit and talk with her. Its a scene I experienced many, many times and it tugged at my heartstrings every time. What a testament to faith, commitment and pure love. I will miss those scenes, but know that Lileah is in God's loving hands., pain free and effervescent once again. Prayers and sympathy are being sent your way. Diane and Rick Stefani
Diane Nemmers Stefani
May 12, 2014
Dr. Harris, Rebecca & Family: Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time. May the love of those around you help you through the days ahead. As an adult, I have often wished that as children we would have been "wise" to the greatness of those who cared for and nurtured us. And, as a list of "greats" goes, Mrs. Harris was certainly at the top. She was my "other" Bever Avenue mother and I remember fondly all of the times that she welcomed me into her home and into her arms as one of her children. And I certainly will never forget the smell of homemade doughnuts that flew through the air on Halloween night as we approached the Harris front door in costume. May you take comfort in knowing that an angel is watching over you.
Stacy Farmer Sablan
May 12, 2014
To all of the Harrises and Furgersons: My deepest condolences to you on Lileah's death. I feel so fortunate to have known Lileah. She was a remarkable woman, and so very kind. We at the Iowa Women's Archives feel honored to shine a light on her many accomplishments by preserving the Lileah Harris Papers. To Percy, Sarah, and Bj: You are in my thoughts.
Karen Mason
Karen Mason
May 12, 2014
I did not have the pleasure of knowing Ms. Harris but my Mother spoke of her and told me of Ms. Harris' strength of character and strong influence in directing her children. I graduated with Phil and Paul in 1976 and have heard of their personal successes through my classmates, know doubt a tribute to their Mother's upbringing. I had no idea of Ms. Harris' community involvement and I'm certain that CR and Washington HS are better places for her influence on both. My deepest condolences to the family.
Karol Heppe
May 12, 2014
To the Harris family,
I am sorry to hear of your loss. I had gotten to know Mrs. Harris from her shopping at Hy Vee. I work there and always went out of my way to visit with her. She had told me stories of her life and her children. She was so proud of all her children and what they had done with their lives. She showed me photos of grandchildren and was proud of them. I learned a lot from her. When she didn't shop, Mr. Harris would come in and I'd visit with him and help him shop if he couldn't find an item. She will be missed by all the lives she has touched.
She was truly a gift from God.
Carla Sams
Carla Sams
May 12, 2014
She has such a presence in the room . I loved her stories and listening to all the amazing adventures of her life. Her charisma just drew you in and found myself trying to seek a chair near her at a Democratic convention just to steal away a few words of conversation .Last saw her at Wicked in Des Moines.
Sending blessings and love to all the family.....just can imagine the celebration in HEAVEN as she enters....anytime any of us got to spend with her was indeed a gift!!
Sally and Gene Kopecky
Sally and Gene Kopecky
May 12, 2014
Dr. Harris, our deepest sympathy to you and your family. But even in this sad moment we cannot help but recall those days now long gone when both our families had kids at Erskine School. And I remember when I was at Channel 9 following you into some unusual places as you carried out your duties as Medical Examiner. Again, our deepest sympathy. David Carter and Sylvia Carter
David Carter
May 12, 2014