Marion Reita Harris, 93, of Allentown, died Dec. 25, 2024, in her home under hospice care. She was born to the late Margarite (Trepanier) and Herbert S. Hawley in Buffalo, N.Y. She was the wife of the late Rev. Thomas G. Harris.

She graduated from Fredonia State University with a Bachelor of Science degree in music education. She taught in Cuba, N.Y., Dover Air Force Base and Frederica, Del. While teaching in Lima, Delaware County, she began studying at Temple University to earn her degree in early childhood education. She taught kindergarten in the Southern Lehigh School District for 23 years, while continuing her studies through the Penn State Extension.

She served with her husband at Calvary Baptist Church, Allentown, for 23 years. Active in the music program, she played piano, sang in the choir, wrote musical arrangements for the Calvary Men’s Quartet and enjoyed singing with her daughters in the Harris Trio.

Her greatest love was for her family, and she blessed them all with her stories and jokes, unforgettable laughter, delicious food and unconditional love.

She is survived by her children, Donna Harris Cierlitsky and her husband, Ed, Stephen and his wife, Kathryne, Timothy and his wife, Kathleen, Judith Harris Rivera and her husband, Johnny; many grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She was predeceased by her youngest son, Jonathan; brother, Harold Hawley; sisters, Catherine Gassman and Lorayne Hawley.

Arrangements were made by Stephens Funeral Home, Inc., www.stephensfuneral.com.

Contributions may be made in her name to Calvary Baptist Church.