Obituary

Brenda Alford Harris

June 13, 1941 - February 14, 2024

Brenda Alford Harris, born on June 13, 1941, passed away peacefully on Valentine's Day at her home in Old River Estates in Bogalusa, Louisiana. She was 82 years old and was a lifelong resident of Bogalusa.

Brenda taught school in the Bogalusa School System for 30 years after graduating from the University of Southern Mississippi with a master's degree in education. Brenda loved children and school teaching and was a constant servant of God. She was a member of the First Baptist Church of Bogalusa's Hospitality Ministry, helping to make sure there was always plenty of good meals for church events and funerals. Everyone, especially her friends and family, loved her cooking. Brenda had a special way of making everyone feel welcome and loved, especially when sharing some of her favorite recipes, chicken and dumplings, fried chicken, cornbread dressing, fresh vegetables from the garden. 

Brenda was always there to support youth in the community, serving as a Horizon Club sponsor and a leader at Camp Fire Girl's Camp Towazi during summer breaks.

Brenda is survived by her loving husband of 57 years, Elbert Harris. She is also survived by her daughter Kristy (Joey) St.Germain of Prairieville, Louisiana. She is also survived by her son Eric Harris of Prairieville, Louisiana and grandson Hudson Harris, who was her only grandson that she shared a very special bond with, of Prairieville, Louisiana. Hudson loved his "memaw" like no other. Also, brother-in-law, Frank Harris (Jackie) of Bogalusa, Louisiana and nephew Brent Harris, (Judy) of Mandeville, Louisiana and niece Cheryl Marcello, (Gary) of Georgia. Also, sister-in-law, Mary (Tommy) Aman of Georgia and nieces Amy (Dray) Cann of Georgia and Amanda Aman of Georgia and Jonathon (Helena) Aman of Tennessee. Also survived by her late sister in- law Elouise Quave Parker and her kids Kim (Brian) Lively, Monica (Brad) Triana, Helen (Billy) Cotton, ll of Bogalusa. Also preceded in death by her late sister -in -law, Faye Foust of Baton Rouge.

Brenda was proceeded in death by her late sister Freda Alford Bennett (Floyd) who were also from Bogalusa, and is survived by her Bennett nephews, Blake (Susan) from Metairie, Louisiana, Gregg (Loretta) from Abita Springs, Louisiana, and Mark (Lauranna) from Brandon, Mississippi, and the late Scott Bennett (Sue). She is also survived by many great nieces and nephews.

Brenda was also preceded in death by her parents Bill and Bessie Alford from Bogalusa.

It can not go without saying that Brenda was a special woman to many who knew and loved her very much. Brenda was happiest when she was with her family, friends, neighbors, and church members, cooking and serving home-cooked meals that only she could provide. Whether it was camping out on the Pearl River canal with family and friends, Thanksgiving and Christmas meals over family gatherings or preparing and serving meals at First Baptist Church events, nothing was complete without Brenda's loving touch.

Please join us for services on Monday, February 19" at Poole Ritchie Funeral Home in Bogalusa, Louisiana, with visitation starting at 11:00 am, funeral service at 2:00pm, and burial to follow at the mausoleum at Ponemah Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, Brenda loved helping others and would prefer a donation made to the charity of your choice. Some of her favorite charities were St. Jude's, Shriner's, SPCA and Dr. David Jeremiah Ministry. Brenda was a lover of animals and always had her loving dog Sweetie by her side.

Brenda will be deeply missed by all that knew and loved her.

The family would like to thank the many people that have helped so much in her care. Dr. Camille Bitar, Dr Brian Galafaro, Southeast Homehealth, Council on Aging, First Baptist Church., and the many, many family and friends that have helped and shown their love for her.