Amelia "Millie" Marie Harris, born October 14, 1927, passed away July 20, 2014 at the age of 86 in Laguna Woods, CA. She leaves her loving and adoring family—husband, Gust William Harris, two children, Melanie Burian and Dr. William Harris, son-in-law, Jim Burian, and three brothers, James, William and Louis Abraham.

Born in New Castle, PA, she had an older sister who preceded her in death and was the first of four children born in the United States to John Abraham and Nabiha Dagher. Upon graduating from New Castle High School with honors, she became employed for an attorney in New Castle and also worked for Western Union. In her spare time, she loved to read and carried a passion for music. Yet, one of her greatest joys in life was dancing, so it is hardly surprising that she met Gust at a dance at Idora Park's Ballroom in Youngstown, OH. It didn't take them long to realize their common interests and passions, and they soon fell in love and married on July 10, 1955 in New Castle.

After the wedding, the couple settled in Gust's home town of Warren, OH. There, Millie went to work for the Veteran's Administration and later the Social Security Administration, where she would make her career. As always, she excelled in each position she held, receiving numerous awards and recognition over the years. However, she passed up multiple offers for promotion until her children were grown, for family was always her biggest passion of all.

Homemaking also proved to be another of her many talents. And, as with everything, Millie approached this aspect of her life with boundless energy. She knitted beautiful sweaters for her husband, sewed clothing for her children, and created many lovely crafts for the holidays. She was an outstanding cook, hosting many a festive dinner party. An excellent baker, Millie decorated amazing, beautiful cakes for the special events of family members. Countless happy times were shared in the Harris home with family and friends all together laughing and creating lasting, special memories—particularly at Christmas time, which was always an especially magical time of year.

Through these years of making a beautiful, loving home for their children, they raised them to be a closely knit family. On weekends, they oftentimes went sightseeing or to museums, or spent fun times with relatives. When each summer arrived, out came the roadmap to guide them on their summer's vacation, where each year, they toured and discovered a different portion of the United States. The closeness that was forged back then continues to this day.

Once retired, Gust and Millie decided to make the move to Southern California, where they joined their two children. They made their home in Laguna Woods, CA, where they joined many clubs and took part in various social activities for many years. They shared and enjoyed a truly carefree retirement, doing the things they loved most.

Even in later years, Gust and Millie continued their shared passion for dancing. Both talented dancers, the dance floor would often part, as other dancers would become spectators while they swirled around the floor. The passion that first brought them together continued throughout the entirety of their married life.

Sadly, over the years, Millie's health began to slowly decline until she quietly passed away, allowing her indomitable spirit to soar freely once again. She will be remembered by all who knew her as a selfless, thoughtful, kind, and most caring individual whose love knew no bounds.

A private service for immediate family will be held this Saturday near Millie's home. Donations in Millie's honor may be made to either St. Demetrios Greek Orthodox Church, Warren, OH, or to the Alzheimer's Association.