Father Robert Charles Harris

Father Robert Charles Harris, 69, of Overland Park, Kansas, passed away at his home on January 27th, 2022.  After a thirteen-year battle with cancer, he died peacefully, surrounded by loved ones. 

Robert was born at Saint Mary’s Hospital in Kansas City, but spent many years traveling the world.  After graduating with his Bachelor’s Degree from the University of Houston, he obtained a Master’s Degree in Business Administration from UMKC.  His first career at King Radio gave him the opportunity to see the world, ride in limos, and live the James Bond lifestyle.  His passport is filled with stamps from countries that most of us cannot find on a map. 

In 1984, Robert married the love of his life, Debra.  Robert, Master of Dad Jokes, leaves behind his wife, Debra, and their five children: Ashley (Matt), Jessica (Jon), Bryan (Andy), Daniel (Dawn), and Justin.  His siblings, Andy (Pat) Harris and Alicia (Ken, dec.) Kimberlin, and his nine grandchildren: Grace, Sophia, Russell, Jay, Boston, Charley, Matty, George, and Graysan, who will miss him and cherish his memory for all of their days.

Robert loved the Lord first, followed closely by his family and the adventurous world of aviation.  As a teenager, Robert earned his private pilot’s license.  He flew commercial jets to South Africa many times, and later enjoyed taking his children and grandchildren on joy rides in the sky. 

After years of life as a flyboy, Robert was called to the priesthood.  He graduated from Seabury Western Theological Seminary in 2005 and served as a chaplain at Truman Medical Center and was the Priest in Residence at Grace Church in Ottawa, Kansas.  In his final months, he continued to share the teachings and joys of the Word of God, presiding over Saturday services at Saint Michael and All Angels Episcopal Church.  Imbued with the spirit of Saint Francis, animals and people were naturally drawn to him and he brought joy to all who knew him. 

Lastly, Father Harris had a very special love for the state of Hawai’i.  He requested that those who attend his services wear their best Hawaiian shirts, dresses, and blue jeans.  His large collection of Hawaiian shirts will be available if you would like one to keep in his memory.  Aloha!

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Robert’s name to Saint Michael and All Angels Episcopal Church of Mission, Kansas, Grace Episcopal Church of Ottawa, Kansas or Darryl Stanford of Grace Church as he continues his journey to the priesthood in Robert’s footsteps.