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Clarence Harris Obituary


CLARENCE L. HARRIS, SR.
September 24, 1928 ~ October 28, 2016

Clarence L. Harris, Sr. passed into the arms of the Lord on October 28th, 2016. He was born on September 24th, 1928 in Swenson, Texas to Robert and Mary Harris. Clarence lived in Clark County for 74 years, making his family one of the first African-American families to settle in the county. He graduated 3rd in his class from Ogden Meadows High School in 1948.
He continued his education at Clark College where he excelled in his studies, football and track. After graduating from Clark in 1950, he worked for the Swift Company and D. and H. Hides until his retirement in 1984.
Clarence realized his love for the Lord at the early age of 4 years old. Every step of his life was directed through prayer and he became a strong and steadfast soldier for God. He was a founding member of New Hope Missionary Baptist Church. Throughout his years at New Hope, he was chairman of the Deacon Board, a senior choir member, treasurer of the finance committee, a Sunday School teacher, a Christian Growth Class teacher and treasurer of the State Brotherhood. Clarence was blessed with the gift of teaching the Bible, especially the book of Revelations. It is estimated that he taught over 1000 eager learners.
He was president of Babe Ruth Little League from 1965-1969. Clarence and his wife Thelma traveled throughout the country for church conventions, family reunions, and made numerous visits to Lincoln City and Seaside.
Clarence is survived by his wife, Thelma, married 69 years. He was blessed with 7 children: Robert {deceased} {Kathy}, Marilyn {Don}, Genie, Clarence Jr. {Karen}, Terry {Georgina}, Anthony {Tanya}, Arnetta. He also leaves a legacy of 17 grandchildren, 27 great-grandchildren, and a large extended family.
Viewing will be at Evergreen Memorial Gardens, Sunday, Nov. 6th, Noon-9:00 p.m. Family viewing only will be 5:00-7:00 p.m. Celebration of Life is on Monday, Nov. 7th, 11:00 a.m. at Bethesda Baptist Church, 1730 S.E. 117th, Ave., Portland, Oregon.
Please sign his Guest Book at www.columbian.com/obits.

Published by The Columbian on Nov. 3, 2016.
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Memories and Condolences
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I am so sorry for your loss, Arnetta & family. May God hold you in his arms.

MaryKay Munson-Syverson

November 22, 2016

When I was a teenager, I was introduced to the teaching ministry of Deacon Clarence Harris of New Hope Missionary Baptist Church in Portland, Oregon. He was practical and profound. It was an honor to be in a class with him and he revealed the truths of scripture. He served as Deacon Chairman for many years there and he was always engaged in the sermon, no matter who was preaching. He was a Choir member in his younger years and also put pen to paper to document the New Hope Church, as he was a founding member. Deacon Harris wrote the words that brought clarity to the history of the Church. He has been ill for quite some time and last week he closed his eyes on this side to join His savior, Jesus Christ. His homegoing services were held today in Portland, and in the words of scripture, "Then the king said to his soldiers, "You must know that a great leader has fallen in Israel today" (2 Samuel 3:38 Holman Bible). My condolences to his wife, Thelma Harris, their children and family.

Robert Earl Houston

November 7, 2016

May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.

Roc Willis

November 7, 2016

Praying for the family.

Rev Samuel and Corliss King

November 6, 2016

My condolences to the Harris family one of the best neighbors we have ever had! It was so nice to visit with you and see the wonderful care that was given to Clarence, such a blessed man to have you all. He will be missed by so many people, but what a life he had. I hope to stop by and do some more catch up. God bless you! Cindy Chattan Gilbert

Cindy Gilbert

November 5, 2016

May the wonderful years of memories fill your hearts at this difficult time.

Emily Escudero

November 5, 2016

We miss you dearly cousin Clarence. Our bible lessons were so rich with your great wisdom. All of us must continue to share the Lord with our children as there is no greater gift to share than the unconditional love of Christ Jesus. Thank you for helping the Lewis Family know the Lord and to seek Him first- like Grandpa and Grandma taught us. Thank you for your Legacy. Offering up Prayers of Comfort to the Harris Family.

Nichole Brown

November 4, 2016

I send my sympathies and condolences to the Clarence Harris Sr. family. I remember him & Thelma well when I worked at Keil's Food Stores not far from the house. Clarence was such a pleasant person and I enjoyed visiting with him & Thelma often when they came in shopping. I pray the family finds love and support from family & friends.
Peace
From the entire Munson family

Douglas Munson

November 4, 2016

Our prayers are with you and your family. Be blessed... LucyEllen Edwards

Rev. Raymon H. Edwards,

November 4, 2016

Condolences to Thelma, Marilyn, Genie, Clarence Jr, Terry, Tony, Arnetta and extended family. You can all be proud of Clarence Sr's lasting legacy.

God's peace...

Kenny Cochran
Danny Cochran

November 3, 2016

May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.

November 3, 2016

My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.

November 3, 2016

Rest In Peace my dear Bible Instructor!!

Reberita McGee-Fitz

Friend

October 31, 2016

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