Meralyn Jean Harris was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend. She left this world peacefully Dec. 4, 2023, at the age of 79. She was born to Frances and Brownie Bakke on Sept. 3, 1944. After graduating from high school, Meralyn embarked on a decades-long career in the school district while earning her bachelor's degree from Lewis-Clark State College. 

She and her husband, Fred Harris enjoyed 32 wonderful years together — a time rich with travel and fun-filled days at their lake cabin. Meralyn's cherished role as a mother to Jocelyn and Jay was marked by unconditional love, shared adventures, and unforgettable memories. Meralyn also loved cooking, gardening, and designing her historical home. She was an avid reader and co-owned a catering business for several years. She and Fred traveled to numerous countries and spent a great deal of time cheering on the Zags.

She is survived by her husband, Fred Harris; children: Jocelyn Pfeifer (Anna); Jay Pfeifer (Ana); Dusty Harris (Chelsea); Brooke Harris (Brian); grandchildren: Isabel, Nathaniel, Asher, Luke, Danielle, Braxton, Brylee, Brayden, Kai, Paityn, Hannah, Ben; great-grandchild: Arthur; siblings: Eloise, Jerry, Tony, Tim, Phil; and many nieces and nephews. She is preceded in death by her parents, Brownie and Frances Bakke.

The family would like to extend a very special thank you to Peterson Place Assisted Living, all of her caregivers, and the Schneidmiller Hospice House.

A memorial service will be held at 1 p.m. Friday, Dec. 15, 2023, at Yates Funeral Home-Hayden Chapel, 373 E. Hayden Ave., Hayden, Idaho. A reception will follow the service. 

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to Schneidmiller Hospice House or the Greater Idaho Chapter Alzheimer’s Association.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.yatesfuneralhomes.com for the Harris family.