After a life well lived, our beloved, Alejandrina “Marcela” Harris departed earthly life on March 26, 2025 at the age of 98. Marcela, as she was affectionately known, was born on March 13, 1927 to Alexander and Marie St. Omer. She was raised in Bocas del Toro, Panama along with her 6 siblings. She relocated to Colon, Panama where she met her dearest life-long friends as well as her beloved husband Aldolphus Harris. Aldolphus and Marcela were married in 1951 and raised three (3) children: Jestina “Tina”, Alberto “Aleman”, and Lidia.
Marcela was a wonderful homemaker and instilled in her family her unwavering faith in God. Marcela was a devout Catholic and found solace and strength in her faith. She prayed the rosary and her devotionals every morning.
Beyond her role as a devoted mother and wife, Marcela was a beloved grandmother. Although she remained in Panama after her children relocated to the United States, she was always active in her grandchildren’s lives. She never missed a birthday, graduation, wedding, birth or other special occasion. She was the matriarch of her family, and brought laughter and joy to all of her grandchildren’s lives.
Marcela enjoyed singing, dancing, listening to a variety of music, attending Mass, and watching musical programs. She was an avid gameshow fan and loved comedy. She enjoyed activities such as sewing, crocheting, and socializing with friends. She also cherished drinking her morning cup of hot tea and savoring a delicious piece of cake.
In her final years, she was surrounded by her family in Columbus, Georgia who helped her navigate through her advancing age.
Marcela was departed in life by her parents; her 6 brothers and sisters: Rosa, Alfonsina, Benoit, Pedro, Idelfonso, and Visanto; and her dear husband Adolphus.
Left to cherish her memory are her children: Jestina (Roberto) Bryan, Alberto (Ada) Harris, and Lidia (Paul) Landry; seven (7) grandchildren: Roberto Jr. (Alicia) Bryan, Jeannelle Bryan, Jahir Harris (Nedish), Sharita Harris, Lisha Landry, Patricia (Maurice) Lewis, and Shaquille Harris; seven (7) great-grandchildren: Keturah Harris, Jadyn Bryan, Amiel Williams, Elyce and Julisa Harris-Lopez, and Mason and Roman Lewis; two (2) great-great grandchildren: James and Jaslyn Jackson; and a host of nieces, nephews, god-children, bonus grandchildren, cousins, and cherished friends.
Marcela leaves behind a legacy of love, devotion to family, and faith. She will be missed by all who love her. Her love and spirit that touched so many will live on forever.
The Homegoing Celebration for Ms. Harris will be held on Friday, April 4, 2025 at 3:30 PM in the Chapel of Progressive with interment at Evergreen Memorial Garden. Service will be live-streamed (see clickable link below)
Visitation will begin on Friday at 1:30 at Progressive.
We rejoice that she is now at peace in the arms of her Savior. In the words of her favorite hymn:
“When Christ shall come, with a shout of acclamation.
And take me home, what joy shall fill my heart. Then I shall bow, in humble admiration.
And then proclaim, my God, how great Thou art.”
Progressive Funeral Home staff is privileged to serve the Family of Ms. Alejandrina Harris.
Elisa Ortegon sent Heavenly Heights Bouquet for Alejandrina Harris - April 04, 2025
Deidre Robert sent Enduring Spirit Pothos Basket for Alejandrina Harris - April 03, 2025
Yanilka Cobb sent Heavenly Heights Bouquet for Alejandrina Harris - April 02, 2025
Inocencia jones sent Serene Retreat for Alejandrina Harris - April 02, 2025
Gilda Butcher sent Pink Tribute Spray for Alejandrina Harris - April 02, 2025
Mrs Arlene Pottinger sent Traditional Floor Basket for Alejandrina Harris - April 01, 2025
Linoshka Lopez sent Mixed Spray for Alejandrina Harris - April 01, 2025
Gregg Miles sent Beautiful Dreams for Alejandrina Harris - April 01, 2025
Alejandro Lewis sent Sweet Tranquility Basket for Alejandrina Harris - March 31, 2025
Hasta siempre tía Marcela, ahora descansas junto a tus hermanos. Los tenemos siempre en el corazón. Va nuestro cariño Ecuador.
Gracias Tía Marcela, porque siempre estuviste pendiente de nuestra familia, participaste de todos nuestros logros y el de nuestros hijos. Paz a tu alma y fortaleza a todos tus familiares.
Simón Cortés y Familia
Mi querida amiga Marcela, te vamos a extrañar, gracias por los gratos ratos que celebramos juntas. Gracias por todos los momentos convividos. Siempre estarás presente en mi corazón. Con mucho cariño, Elisa Ortegon
Godmother You are an angel with a beautiful soul!! Your strength, courage and laughter will forever remind me of the memories we shared when I was growing up. The Sunday afternoon talks were the best! Love u always... Rest peacefully Madrina❤️
Ay, mi Reina Madre me vas a hacer mucha falta, Te quiero mucho! Oh my Queen Mother, I am going to miss you very much. I love you!!
I offer my deepest heartfelt condolences to you and family. During this time of grief, may you find peace in the love and memories you shared with your mom. Blessings and comfort, Zaida Pinder
Abuela, rest in peace. I'm glad that you are in heaven and that you are not in pain. I love you.
Love, Mason Ryan Lewis
I am going to miss my one of a kind Abuela. She modeled for me at an early age the importance of family, prayer, and dedication to God. I know without a shadow of a doubt that she is in Heaven rejoicing ! Although I will miss her, it is comforting to know she is no longer in pain. Te amo, Abuela. Rest in peace.