William Harold Harris, 89, of Etowah, died early Tuesday morning, August 17, 2010 at his residence. A native and lifelong resident of the Goodsprings community in Etowah, he was a son of the late Jess and Lucy Shoemaker Harris. He was very active in all Masonic bodies for 61 years. He was a 32nd degree KCCH (Knight Commander Court of Honor). He served in many elected offices, including Master of Etowah Lodge 653. As a member of York Rite Masons, he served as Master of Lodge, High Priest, Illustrious Master and Past Commander. He was the recipient of the KYCH (Knight York Cross of Honor), and the Order of the Purple Cross for Meritorious Service to York Rite Masonry was conferred upon him in 1996. He was a veteran during World War II, serving in the US Coast Guard. He retired from Alcoa Aluminum Company after 41 years of service. He was preceded in death by his wife of 63 years, Sue Mayfield Harris; a brother, R.C. (Red) Harris; and a sister, Betty Griffin. Survivors include two daughters and sons-in-law, Wanda and Jim Buff and Janis and Gary Morel; five grandchildren, Tracy, Trent and Taylor Buff, Janna Morel McGregor and Paul Morel; 6 great-grandchildren, Bridget and Trason Buff, Alana McGregor, Reagan and Emerson Buff and Ava Morel; two sisters, Jean Gilliland and Juanita Everett; and several nieces, nephew and many friends. A Masonic service will be held at 7 p.m. Thursday, August 19, 2010 in the South Chapel. Funeral service will immediately follow with Dr. Jack Burns and the Rev. Glen Gamble officiating. The family will receive friends from 5 until 7 p.m. Thursday prior to the services.

Family and friends will assemble at the funeral home at 9 a.m. Friday, August 20th and proceed to Goodsprings Cemetery for the 10 a.m. committal service, concluding with military honors. Tracy Buff, Trent Buff, Taylor Buff, Trason Buff, Paul Morel and John McGregor will serve as pallbearers.