Norma M. Harris' Obituary
Norma M. Harris (née McCarus), a beacon of creativity and wisdom, passed away peacefully on May 26, 2025, at the age of 93 in Berea, Ohio. Born on May 9, 1932, in Charleston, West Virginia, she was a daughter, sister, mother, and grandmother whose vibrant spirit and love for the arts enriched the lives of all who knew her.
Norma's early life in Charleston laid the foundation for a lifelong journey of intellectual curiosity and artistic passion. She carried these passions with her to the University of Michigan, where she majored in Art History and earned her Bachelor's Degree. While attending school, Norma was a part of a multi-ethnicity dance group where she toured locally showcasing her authentic Lebanese belly dancing. It was at the University that Norma's path became intertwined with the arts on a professional level. She served as an usher at the University of Michigan Performing Arts department, a role that allowed her to be close to the stage she adored. Her dedication to the University continued as she had the distinguished role of Secretary to the Dean of the University of Michigan, and later secretary in the Genetics and Pediatrics Department.
Norma's commitment to her work was matched only by her love for her family. She was a cherished mother to Michael Harris and Lisa (Harris) Kurtz, and a doting grandmother to Drew, Daniel, and David. Norma's siblings, Mitchell (Betty) McCarus, Edward McCarus, Ernest (Adele) McCarus, Ramez (Dolores) McCarus, and Frances (Harry) Zegeer (McCarus), predeceased her, as did her parents, Nasseph and Della (Saad) McCarus.
An avid lover of art and painting, Norma's creative spirit found expression in her own art projects and in her appreciation of others' works. Norma's interests extended beyond the visual arts; she was a connoisseur of the performing arts as well. She made frequent trips to Stratford, Canada, to immerse herself in the world of Shakespeare, and she held a deep appreciation for classical music and opera. In her later years, she even took up piano, proving that her thirst for learning and growth knew no bounds. As a lifelong learner, Norma never ceased to expand her horizons.
Norma's wisdom was sought after by her many friends, who valued her insights and company. Her home was a hub of intellectual conversation, laughter, and the warmth of her hospitality. She was also a dedicated companion to Mr. Bharat Bhushan for over 20 years. Together, they shared a love for travel including a cruise to Alaska and touring in Italy, and the arts, attending Shakespeare plays and exploring new cultural experiences.
Norma's life will be celebrated in a private ceremony, where her family will gather to honor her remarkable journey through life. Interment will take place at Sunset Memorial Cemetery in Charleston, West Virginia at a later date.
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