Deborah Louise Harris
Date of Death: September 9, 2020
In profound sadness, the staff of Veasley Funeral Home & Cremations, Inc. want to express our sincere condolences to the Harris family. Deborah's earthly temple is now resting in the care of Rowell-Parish Mortuary. Revelations 21:4 says "And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death; nor sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain, for the former things are passed away." Be assured that in the days ahead you will surely gain strength from the memories of Mrs. Deborah Louise Harris.
Deborah Louise Harris was born to Hester Nation and Clarence Toran on Thursday, August 25, 1955 in Fort Smith, Arkansas. She was preceded in death by a son, Christopher Harris, and two brothers, Steve Toran, and Lawrence Toran, Sr.
At an early age, Deborah was baptized at St. Augustine's Episcopal Church where she was active in the Choir. Growing up, she enjoyed playing with her siblings, and had a love for singing. She graduated from Northside High School in 1973 where she participated in the Choir. She attended Westark Community College (UAFS) and frequently performed at Churches and local events with her brother Steve, and sister Shirley as a trio group.
Deborah was employed at Simmons Foods, Inc. in Van Buren, AR for 20 years, where she was recognized for her years of service. One of many lasting impressions she made on co-workers was when she would read her Bible during her break time one former co-worker shared.
Deborah was the most kind, loving and dedicated wife, mother, and grandmother. She was married to her husband Ronnie for 39 years, and together they have six children, and five grandchildren. She never missed a moment for laughter with family and friends. She would always have a funny story that humored her, so much so that she would have you falling over in laughter right along with her as she would tell the story.
Deborah's love for God was enormous. She made First Church of God in Christ her Church home for over 25 years, where she re-dedicated her life to Christ. In serving God, she sung in the Choir as well as served on the Usher Board. While walking with God and being dedicated to her family, it was very important to her to instill Christian values in her children and be a good example.
She was a giver in life, always blessing others without expecting anything in return. She met people where they were, always showing love. A genuine woman, she fully modeled God's love, kindness, blessing others, and so much more, not just in speech, but also in actions. She will always and forever be missed and loved by those who treasured her dearly with her presence while on this earth.
Deborah's memories will be cherished by her husband Ronnie Harris of Fort Smith, AR; five daughters Aiyana Martin of Alexander, AR, Stephanie Harris, LaRhonda Harris, Ashley Harris, and Whitney Harris all of Fort Smith, AR; five grandchildren, Xavier, Isaiah, Aubrielle, Chloe, and Zuri; parents, Hester Nation and Clarence Toran both of Fort Smith, AR; six sisters, Shirley Carter of Fort Smith, AR, Clara Davis of Kansas City, MO, Dianne and Janette Johnson both of Van Buren, AR, Stephanie Henry of Lewisville, TX, and Kimberly McKinley of Mansfield, TX; and six brothers Clarence Toran of Goldsboro, NC, Donald Toran, Paul Toran, and Eric Toran all of Fort Smith, AR, Jerry Perry of Arlington, TX, and Phil Perry, Sr. of Fort Smith, AR, and a host of other relatives and friends.