William “Bill” Harris was born on November 8, 1944, in Seattle, Washington, to John and Bernice Harris. The third of three brothers, Bill grew up in Seattle and graduated from St. Martin’s High School. He went on to attend Seattle University on a baseball scholarship, earning his Bachelor of Arts degree and later completing his Master of Education degree in 1977. Bill continued his education efforts and in 1989 earned his Mental Health Counselor certification.
Bill began his professional life working in group homes, where his compassion for children and commitment to helping others quickly became evident. In the early 1970s, he began what would become a long and meaningful career as Head of Adoptions for Catholic Community Services in Western Washington. In that role, Bill helped bring children from China, Japan, and Korea into loving homes throughout Washington. In addition, Bill was very instrumental in developing an adoption relationship in South Korea. His work changed the lives of many children and families, and his dedication to each child was a reflection of the kindness and care that defined him. Bill’s commitment to children extended far beyond his professional life. He fostered two young men, Jimmy and Jason Morgan, whom he loved and raised as his own. Both Jimmy and Jason predeceased Bill, and their loss was a deeply felt part of his life. Bill enjoyed being a grandfather figure to Steven and Tyler. He was immensely proud of both of them.
After retiring from Catholic Community Services in the 1990s, Bill sold the family home in Seward Park and moved to Mercer Island. In September 2001, he began a second career with the Mercer Island School District, eventually spending 24 years serving students, families, and staff in a variety of roles. Bill was a school bus driver for 16 years and also served as a bus driver trainer. For 11 years, he worked as a student supervisor while continuing to drive and train bus drivers. He later spent two years as a paraeducator, followed by six years as a substitute bus driver and substitute paraeducator. He retired from the Mercer Island School District in November 2025.
Throughout those years, Bill became much more than a familiar face in the schools. He was a mentor, a trusted friend, and a source of wisdom and kindness for countless colleagues, students and families. He showed up for kids, on the bus, in the schools, and on the athletic field. He had a way of making people feel seen, supported, and cared for.
Family was equally important to Bill. He was always there for those he loved, freely sharing his life lessons, experiences, stories, and wisdom. He gave generously of himself and remained a steady presence for his family throughout the years. A devoted University of Washington Huskies football fan, Bill could always be counted on to proudly wear his purple and gold on game day. He also loved his Seattle Mariners, and watching his favorite teams was one of the simple pleasures that brought him joy.
Bill will be remembered for his generous heart, his quiet wisdom, quick wit, his devotion to children and family, and his willingness to show up for others. The many lives he touched, through his work, his schools, his family, and his friendships are part of his legacy.
A heartfelt thank you to Radj, Bright and Andrea (Home Forever, LLC) for providing Bill exceptional in home care, allowing him to stay in his community during his final chapter.
Bill will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him.
Bill is survived by first cousins Carol Ballata (Joseph), Michael Butler (Deanna), Thomas Butler (Kathleen), Lori Pollett (Dennis), Judy Monahan and numerous extended family.
A Rosary service will be held on October 8, 2026 at 12:00 noon at St. Monica’s Catholic Church on Mercer Island. At 12:30p.m., a light reception will be held in Bill’s honor at the Family Center on the south side of St. Monica’s Catholic Church.
Please note: The rosary is a prayful time that is participatory in nature. A handout will be provided to follow or participate. People are welcome to attend the rosary and/or just the reception.
