Marquis N. Harris, Jr.

Marquis N. Harris, Jr. Marquis N. Harris, Jr. of Clarkston, Michigan peacefully entered into eternal life at his home on July 10, 2025 at the age of 95.

He was born to Marquis and Victoria "Ora" Harris on June 3, 1930.  Marquis spent the majority of his childhood on Spencer Street in Ferndale, Michigan where he worked tirelessly to fulfill 230 paper route customers.  He earned enough over the years to purchase his first car, a 1946 Ford and later, an engagement ring. Marquis also achieved the rank of Eagle Scout plus 2 Palms with the Boy Scouts of America.  He would graduate from Lincoln High School and went on to attend first, Lawrence Tech and then Wayne State University.

Marquis would earn a Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering and was also active in the  U. S. Army Reserve and the Methodist Wesley Foundation.  It was during time at the Foundation House that he met the love of his life, Norma Jean Barr, a chemical engineering student.  They would marry in July of 1955 and Marquis then worked as a draftsman for General Motors Corporation.

In 1956, Marquis was called up to serve in Kassel, Germany as an officer in the last years of the Army of the Occupation for WWII.  He spoke fondly of his years as an intelligence officer for the country he loved and earned the rank of Captain.

In 1958, Marquis returned to General Motors and rose through the ranks, retiring as a senior executive with General Motors Truck and Bus in 1987.  He felt strongly at that time that there was a call on his life to serve his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ in a fulltime position.  Days later, Marquis was asked to serve as the General Manager for the Full Gospel Businessmen Fellowship International headquartered in California.  He held this role for 3 years.

In 1990, Marquis moved back to Michigan and was the Administrative Pastor for Zion Evangelistic Temple for several years before officially retiring to his beautiful 10-acre home in Clarkston, Michigan.

In later years, Marquis enjoyed tending his roses, growing tomatoes, driving his 1930 Model A and reading history books.  But most of all, Marquis found his joy and purpose in sharing Christ and praying with others in the area stores, coffee shops, and gas stations… anywhere he saw a need. He was also active at Bridgewood Church in Clarkston, and supported and loved the church body and leadership team.

Marquis was the husband of Norma (nee Barr) for 70 years, father of Marquis (Glenda) Harris, Michael Harris, Cynthia (late Dan) Zink and preceded in death by his son, Dr. Matthew (Mary) Harris and daughter, Carol Beth Harris Marple and her unborn child, Sarah.

He is survived by his brother, Clark (Judy) Harris, and grandchildren, Lt. Col. Luke (Ashley) Harris, Christine (Ben) Bennett, April (Chris) Miller, Rebecca (Johnny) Hunt, Dr. Heather Zink, Aaron (Tyla) Zink, Dr. Amanda Harris, Joshua Harris, Mark (Manae) Harris, Dr. Micah Harris, Anna (Tyler) Acton, and Merrick Harris.  Marquis also has nine great grandchildren and two on the way.

Private interment at Lakeview Cemetery.  A family Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.

Memorial donations may be made to Bridgewood Church, 6765 Rattalee Lake Road, Village of Clarkston, Mi 48348

Arrangements entrusted to Lewis E. Wint & Son Funeral Home, Clarkson.

"Well done, good and faithful servant"