Lucile Harris

Mary Lucile Harris, age 102, of Abernethy Laurels Continuing Care Community, Newton, NC, formerly of New London, died of natural causes on June 26, 2011. A memorial service will be held Tuesday, June 28, 2011, at 11 am at Spirit Place at Abernethy Laurels in Newton, NC. Born in Catawba County on April 28, 1909. Mrs. Harris was the daughter of the late James Lawrence Herman and Essie Catherine Coulter Herman of Newton. One of their eight children, she was preceded in death by one brother and six sisters. After graduating from the NC College for Women (now UNC-G) in 1930, she came to New London to teach. Shortly after arriving in New London, she met Ben Harris and married him in June 1934. Mr. Harris preceded her in death on January 8, 1975. A resident of Stanly County for 70 years, Mrs. Harris taught high school science at New London High School from 1930 to 1936. In 1948 and 1949, she served on the New London School Board, and in 1952 she returned to teaching at New London Elementary School where she taught until 1966. From 1967 to 1971, she taught at Aquadale Elementary School and retired from teaching in 1971. She was a member of the Stanly County Retired Teachers Association. Mrs. Harris was an active member of New London United Methodist Church where she taught adult Sunday school classes and was a member of the Women’s Society of Christian Service. She moved to Abernethy Laurels in 2000. Mrs. Harris was survived by her two daughters, Mary Ben Harris of Simpsonville, KY, and Betsy Ann Harris of Washington DC. The family appreciates any memorials that may be made to New London United Methodist Church, 206 S. Main St., New London, NC 28127 or to Abernethy Laurels, 102 Leonard Ave., Newton, NC 28658. Online condolences may be made at www.hartsellfh.com