William Harris

William Carson Harris, 71, of Keota, passed away Monday, July 6, 2020 in Mercy Hospital in Ft. Smith, Ark. He was born June 27, 1949 in Keota to William E. “Blackie” and AsaLee (Winters) Harris.  He grew up in Keota where he  graduated in 1968. He served his country in the Army during the Vietnam War from 1969-1970. He earned the National Defense Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, Vietnam Campaign Medal, Combat Infantry Badge, Air Medal, The Bronze Star Medal and The Purple Heart Medal. After his service he eventually married Carol (Orman) Thompson on Oct. 1, 1977 at Star and they made their home in Star and Cowlington. Carson began a career with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Tulsa District. His career spanned 22 years until his retirement. He was an avid coon hunter. He loved his Vietnam reunions across the country. He never missed a reunion with his brothers. He adored his grandchildren. He was a member of Star Baptist Church.

Carson is survived by his wife of 42 years, Carol Harris of the home; his two daughters and a son-in-law, Rachel Motal, Marilyn and Todd Bullock of Senoia, Ga.; two grandchildren and a spouse, Ashlee and Alex Aikin of Sharpsburg, Ga., Dane Bullock of Senoia, Ga.; his brother and sister-in-law, Larry and Sharon Harris of Keota; his sister, Sally Hawkins of Broken Arrow; a sister-in-law, Betty Harris of Keota; and several nieces and nephews.

Carson is preceded in death by his parents, William E “Blackie” and AsaLee Harris and a brother, Philip Harris.

Graveside services will be at 1 p.m. Thursday, July 9, 2020 in Fort Smith National Cemetery in Fort Smith, Ark. with the Rev. Larry Harris officiating. Eulogist will be Pastor Rick McClasky. Pallbearers include Todd Bullock, Dane Bullock, Alex Aikin, Clint Perkins, Steve Perkins, Scott Hawkins and Richie Harris.

Burial will follow immediately under the direction of King & Shearwood Funeral Home of Stigler.