Patricia T. Harris, 79, of Fairport passed away peacefully on Wednesday, May 26, 2021 from Alzheimer’s Disease.

Patricia Louise Therre was born in Syracuse on March 7, 1942, the second daughter of the late Robert A. and Evelyn M. (Crouse) Therre. Growing up on Oneida Lake, she never lost her love of being near the water. On August 3, 1963, Patty married Orville P. (Duke) Harris in St. Thomas Episcopal Church in North Syracuse, New York. A graduate of Syracuse University and the University of Buffalo, and a lifelong educator, Patty loved sharing her passion for American history with her students. In return, many of those students continued their relationship with her long after they left her classroom.

Patty was an active Episcopalian, an avid reader and talented cook, connected with nature, and nurtured beautiful perennial gardens. She was deft in needlework, knitting through many of her children’s sporting events and Sabres’ games. She volunteered regularly to benefit many a community need, holding offices as asked. She learned to rollerblade in her 60s after a childhood spent at the family’s roller-skating rink. She enjoyed discovering hidden treasures at any antique store that presented itself, and losing herself to music, be it the Rochester Philharmonic or the 1950s music of her youth. Patty was a devoted wife, proud mother, a generous grandmother, and her witty humor, kind words and thoughtful ways will be deeply missed.

In addition to her husband of 57 years, Patty is survived by son Dr. Orville P. (Stephanie) Harris II, daughter Gretchen H. (Albert) Zenner and grandson, August W. Zenner. She is further survived by her second mother Genevieve B. Therre, sisters Mary Ann Parsons and Margaret (Daniel) Kirkby; sister-in-law Marcella Campbell, and dear nieces, nephews and many friends.

Friends may call on Tuesday, June 1 from 2-4:00 and 7-9:00 at Miller Funeral & Cremation Services (3325 South Winton Road, in Rochester). The funeral will be held on Wednesday, June 2, at 10:30 am at St. Paul’s Episcopal in Rochester, followed by interment at Mt. Hope Cemetery, Rochester.
In lieu of flowers, Patty loved all animals, especially those she called her own, so please direct any memorial contributions to Lollypop Farm Humane Society DONATE ONLINE, or the animal shelter of your choice.