Golda Matthews Harris

Golda Matthews Harris, age 87, of Morrilton, passed away Sunday, January 30, 2005. She was affectionately known as "Green" by her grandchildren and other family and friends. Golda was born July 16, 1917, in Aplin, Arkansas, one of nine children born to Dr. James Monroe Matthews, a prominent physician who served both Conway and Perry Counties for many years, and Charlotte Minerva Thedford Matthews. She was the widow of Robert D. Harris, Sr. Golda graduated from Harding Academy in Morrilton and Vanderbilt University in Nashville, Tennessee, where she earned BS and RN degrees. While working in Arkadelphia as the administrator of the Public Health Department in Clark County, she met and married "Bob" Harris. Following WWII, they moved to Morrilton and bought what became Harris Funeral Home. She was one of the first in Arkansas to receive her funeral director's license; being issued license #231, following her husband's being issued as license #230. Golda was a prominent figure sitting behind her desk in the office of the funeral home for more than 58 years. She retired at age 87. Golda was a member of the First Baptist Church of Morrilton. She was an avid reader and collector and enjoyed other pursuits such as entertaining family and friends, traveling, bridge club, and membership in the Antique Automobile Club of Little Rock. She and her husband were instrumental in the development and growth of the Antique Automobile Museum on Petit Jean Mountain. Survivors include one son and daughter-in-law, Robert D. Harris, Jr. and Michelle of Morrilton; two daughters, Emily Dockery of Solgohachia and daughter and son-in-law, Charlotte and Eddy Guinn of Plumerville; one sister, Jean Peck of Morrilton; five grandchildren, Susan Dumas and husband, Paul; Amy Cooper and husband, Robert; Janna, Justin, and Haylee Harris; seven great-grandchildren; Taylor and Abby Edwards, Witt and Greyson Dumas, and Bob, Ian, and Zack Cooper. Funeral services will be at 2:00 p.m. Wednesday, February 2, at the First Baptist Church with Dr. Bill Brown officiating. The family will receive friends from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. on Tuesday at the funeral home. Burial will be at Elmwood Cemetery by Harris Funeral Home of Morrilton. Memorials may be made to First Baptist Church and Conway County Library.

Golda Matthews Harris

July 16, 1917 - January 30, 2005