Major Harris, a leader in every sense of the word, passed away Feb. 19.  A young wall washer in 1964, brother Harris was a part of the original organizing drive at Lutheran Hospital in Cleveland.

When workers at Lutheran Hospital won the Union, he was elected to the SEIU bargaining team and remained a Union leader throughout his 44 years of employment.  At Lutheran Hospital, brother Harris went on to become a painter, eventually retiring as a groundskeeper.

When brother Harris retired in 2007, he was recognized by SEIU District 1199 for his tireless service for workers' rights and equality.  As late as January, SEIU members continued to seek his advice and counsel from his bed as a patient at Lutheran Hospital.

A memorial gathering will be held for brother Harris before he is taken to Alabama for his funeral.  Our thoughts and prayers go out to all those touched by his life.