February 28, 2024, 92, Goldsboro —

Merle Swanson Harris, 92, finished her course on this earth on Wednesday, February 28, 2024, at ECU Health Inpatient Hospice. She was born in Caldwell County to the late William Russell Swanson and Lida Prestwood Swanson on September 16, 1931. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Rev. Floyd Jethro Harris; grandson, Seth Harris; great-grandson, Gabriel Baker; sisters, Ruth Kincaid, Ila Bolick, Margaret Dabrowski, and Martha Setzer; and brothers, Jim Swanson, G.B. Swanson, and Furman Swanson.

Merle was a devoted and loving mother. Her children took priority in her life and she gave them of all she had. She always wanted to make sure they knew they were loved and cared for. Her grandchildren held an equally important part of her heart. She loved to watch them grow and succeed.

God was always first in Merle’s life, above all else. Her church and church family were very important to her. Oak Ridge Church of God of Prophecy was home for her and she loved to use her gifts and talents there for the Lord.

For many years, Merle was a valued employee of O’Berry Center in Goldsboro.

A graveside service will be held on Tuesday, March 5, 2024, at 1:00 p.m. at the Church on the Rock Cemetery in Granite Falls, NC. The family will greet friends following the service at the cemetery.

Merle is survived by her sons, Tim Harris and wife, Patsy and Micah Harris; two grandchildren, Sunnie Baker and Ian Harris; and seven great-grandchildren.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given in her memory to the Church of God of Prophecy World Missions.

Services are entrusted to Seymour Funeral Home and Cremation Service.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.seymourfuneralhome.com.