Jean McKenzie Harris
September 1, 1949 ~ December 29, 2024
Jean M. Harris, age 75, passed away on December 29, 2024, in Marietta, GA after an extended illness. Jean leaves to cherish her memory, her loving husband of 45 years, Howard T. Harris and sister Joan M. Adams (and her husband, James O. Adams) of Jasper, GA. as well as many cousins, friends and work associates. Jean's parents Bertha and Grady McKenzie pre-deceased her.
Jean was a long-time member of First Baptist Church of Decatur where she grew up attending Sunday school and services with her sister. Jean's parents were active members of the church.
Jean completed her Bachelor of Elementary Education from LaGrange College in LaGrange, GA. Jean earned her Master's Degree in Elementary Education from Georgia State University in Atlanta, GA. Jean also took numerous continuing education courses and earned several special certifications over her career. As a lifelong learner, Jean continued to learn new ways to educate young children and share her talents with other educators. Jean spent many hours preparing lessons, designing engaging activities, and collaborating with peers to involve parents in their child's education while working to identify how to improve literacy for all children.
Jean was dedicated to her craft, spending many years in the classroom with kindergarten and first-grade students. Jean began her career in Atlanta Public Schools at Continental Colony Elementary School, later moving to Cobb County School District, where Jean taught at Eastside and Richard B. Russell Elementary Schools. Jean retired in 2001 after 30 years of devoted service. Even after retirement, Jean continued to serve students, working for a time in Paulding County Schools. Jean was passionate about making sure all students learned to read and write and enjoy the pleasures of good books. Jean truly loved each child she worked with during her tenure in education.
Jean was also passionate about her small, furry feline friends. Through the years, Jean had many cats, loving each one in a special way and mourning their passing when she had to say good-bye.
A celebration of Jean's life will be held on March 26, 2025. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Alzheimer's Association or to the Cure Alzheimer's Fund.
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My late wife, Pat, and I knew Jean for over 40 years. She was always a delight to be with. She and Pat were as much sisters as friends. Jean will be sorely missed. My prayers and those of my family go with Howard as he begins this challenging journey.
I’m very sorry to hear of Jean’s passing.
Jean was a very wonderful friend and colleague! We spent many years together at Russell Elementary. My students always loved to have Jean come into the classroom. I will always have a special place in my heart for Jean.
Elaine Davis
Everytime we would go out to dinner, Jean would say “Thank you dear” to stick for dinner and I now take the place if saying “Thank you dear” everytime we go out to dinner.
In Memory of Jean Harris
I loved working with Jean at Russell Elementary School.
❤️Carol Adkins
With loving memories of “Jean McKenzie Harris”
Jean & Stick visited with us in various states where we lived. We loved her giggle when she got tickled telling a story. They met us on a trip to Jackson Hole, WY where we were camping. They had never camped before but were brave enough to try it. After a night by the campfire, we retired to our tents. The next morning Jean said, “I will NEVER camp again.! She was such a good sport, even while white water rafting the next day. That girl had the best memory, as she remembered people on the bus and in the raft for a long time. Love you, Jean!!
Stick, I am so sorry that I will not be able to attend the memorial for Jean. She is missed. Please accept my prayers and condolences.
Jean, sweet, sweet, Jean; you will be truly missed. I taught with her for many years at Richard B. Russell elementary school. She was the best teacher and friend ever! We shared many good times and lots of laughs together. No one was more dedicated to the education of our youth! Her legacy will live on through the many children whose life she has touched… The loss is immeasurable, but so is the love left behind. Please accept my deepest sympathies. ❤️ – Anne Thomas
Love and miss you my Jean/Jean!!!
Jean was a blessing to so many and we are thankful to have known her over the years.
Stick,
I am sorry I won’t be able to be there today to celebrate Jean’s life. I have the fondest memories of both of you and your kindness. My prayers are with you today and always.