William "Bill" Wayne Harris, 73, of Grayling, died Thursday, April 23, 2026, at Paul Oliver Living and Rehabilitation Center in Frankfort. He was born November 8, 1952, in Flint, the son of James Sheldon and Lottie Rebecca (Hebert) Harris Sr.

Bill's journey began in Flint, where he spent his early years before moving to Grayling, the place he would call home for the rest of his life. It was here that Bill met and married Marlene, the love of his life, with whom he shared a deep understanding and connection. Together, they embraced a simple and quiet life, filled with love, companionship, and many cats.

Bill held various jobs throughout his life. He worked as a clerk for Wolohan Lumber, as a housekeeper at Mercy Hospital, as a bus driver for C.O.O.R. ISD, as a fuel truck driver for Fick & Sons, and as a laundry specialist at Grayling Nursing & Rehabilitation Center.

In his spare time, Bill enjoyed woodworking, creating intricate miniature landscapes complete with buildings for his extensive model railroads, rides on his Harley-Davidson motorcycles with Marlene, and listening to classic rock. He treasured the moments spent with family, whether playing cards, going out to eat, or simply visiting with one another.

Bill is survived by: his siblings, Ernest "Ernie" (Anna) Harris of Cleveland, Minnesota, Steven "Steve" (Annette) Harris of Brethren, Marie (Devon Smith) Harris of Roscommon, and Robert "Bob" Harris of Belleville, New Jersey; nieces and nephews, Kenda (Robert Lawler) Caloroso of Missouri, Jill Charmaine Jones of Florida, Jordana (Chris) Clark of Florida, Glory Harris of Belleville, Kirk Marshall of Texas, Albert (Suzana) Harris of Minnesota, Robert "Bob" Fredricks of Texas, Michelle "Missy" (Kevin) Miller of Onekama, Daisy (Darien Ripple) of Rockford, Rebecca (Scott) Kloote of Coopersville, Courtney (Kirk) Harris Barz of Onekama, Nikolaus (Darcy Doll) Kalthoff of Roscommon, Trevor (Ashlee) Kalthoff of Waterford, and Cameron (Kristen) Kalthoff of Roscommon; stepdaughter, Kelly Coe; and numerous great-nieces, great-nephews, and cousins. We cannot forget to mention his ever present, loyal and devoted feline companions: Rusty, Jacky, Jill, Darby, and Dusty.

In the summer of 1982, Bill married Marlene Mildred (Sampson) Coe who preceded him in death on February 6, 2020. He was also preceded in death by: his parents; brother, James "Buck" Sheldon Harris Jr.; sister, Beverly Marshall; nephew, Nathan Harris; and stepsons, Todd Coe and Scott Coe.

A celebration of life for Bill & Marlene will be conducted at 4:00 PM, Saturday, May 16, 2026, at Beacon Cremation & Funeral Service, Covell-Traverse City Chapel, 511 S Garfield Avenue, Traverse City, Michigan 49686. The family will receive friends from 3:00 PM until time of services at the funeral home.

Beacon Cremation & Funeral Service, Covell-Traverse City Chapel, is in charge of arrangements.

www.beaconfh.com