Phil Harris

Phil Harris, 80, passed away early Saturday morning, March 11th, 2017. Phil was born March 29th, 1936 in Waco, Texas to Hoyt and Robbie Harris. Phil graduated from McAllen High School in 1954 and went on to Baylor University. He received his undergraduate and law degree in 5 years. During his time at Baylor, Phil joined ROTC and after Baylor went to basic training and served in the army. Phil became a successful attorney and eventually graced Weslaco with his presence and what a blessing he was to the community. He married a Weslaco native, Mary Ann Zieser in 1973. Phil was very active in the community, serving in the Lion's Club for many years and at one point was president. He was also a Weslaco city commissioner, but was only able to serve one term because he caused so much havoc. Phil had a great sense of humor and may be most remembered by his weekly newsletter about Weslaco politics featuring "Sam Schnauzer", Mary Ann and Phil's politically savy dog. Many people would subscribe and eagerly await this faxed newsletter that was full of "secret" but significant information about city and school government, with a bit of a comic nature. Phil "Sam" was fun to read and had a sense of humor like no other. He loved being an attorney and worked until his last days, appearing in court a week before his passing. Phil will always be remembered as a fun loving enjoyable person who could make anyone laugh and as one of the hardest working attorneys in the valley. He was preceded in death by his parents and his beloved dog Sam the Schnauzer. He is survived by his loving wife of 43 years, Mary Ann, his daughter Cathleen McLean and husband Jeff, his two granddaughters Kelley and Jaclyn, his sister Daisy Stone and nephews, Lloyd and Ron Jr. Stone. He is also survived by the countless others he touched during his life. Visitation will be on Friday, March 17 from 5 to 9 at the McCaleb Funeral Home in Weslaco. The family will receive friends and relatives from 7 to 9. Funeral services will be at 11 am Saturday, March 18 at Highland Memorial Park in Weslaco. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Aurora House (Weslaco).