Robert Donald Harris, 89, of West Monroe, Louisiana, passed away peacefully on September 26, 2026, at The Gardens at Georgia Tucker in Monroe, Louisiana. A lifelong resident of West Monroe, Robert was born on September 7, 1937. He was a loving son, husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend to many. He will be remembered for his devotion to his family, his dedication to his work, his love of the outdoors, and the many lives he touched along the way.

Robert graduated from West Monroe High School in 1955 as a member of the school's second graduating class. He attended Northeast Louisiana State College on a baseball scholarship and graduated in 1962. He began his career teaching mathematics at West Monroe High School before working at Olin Kraft Paper Mill from 1964 to 1969.

In 1969, Robert joined Bancroft Bag, Inc., where he served as Vice President for more than 30 years. He was a trusted right-hand man to Mr. Toby Bancroft and also served briefly as the company's Business Manager. Following his retirement in 1998, Robert continued consulting with the company for many years, a testament to his knowledge, dedication, and lasting commitment to his work.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Robert found great joy in the simple pleasures of life. He had a special love for animals, particularly his dogs, and his beloved Pumpkin held a special place in his heart. He also had a deep appreciation for the outdoors and all of God's creations. An avid gardener, he spent countless hours pollinating plants, expanding his beautiful collection, and sharing plants with others. He was a talented woodworker who enjoyed spending time on projects and improvements around his home. Whether tending his garden, caring for his beloved animals, or enjoying the company of family and friends, Robert found happiness in the things he loved and in sharing those passions with others.

Robert was preceded in death by his parents, Lawrence (Boss) Harris and Marie S. Harris; his first wife, Joann McGough Harris; his son, Robert Dunn (Bo) Harris; his grandson, Robert Jacob (Jake) Harris; his brother, Allen L. Harris, and sister-in-law, Kay Harris; his sisters, Thelma H. Waldrop and her husband, Jake, and Bonnie H. Potier and her husband, Harold; and his brother-in-law, Lloyd Hunter.

He is survived by his loving wife, Exa Heard Harris; his two great-granddaughters, Amelie Harris and Iris Harris; his sisters, Marline H. Hunter and Margaret Harris Burkett; his brother, Teddy Harris and wife, Diane; and several beloved nieces and nephews whom he loved deeply. He also leaves behind a special group of friends at The Gardens at Georgia Tucker Memory Care Unit, whose friendship brought joy and comfort to his life.

The family is especially grateful to Charniecya Donus (LitBit) and Lakisha Thompson, Robert's devoted caregivers, whose kindness and compassion, along with the loving support of Shelia Hatton and the entire staff of The Gardens at Georgia Tucker Memory Care Unit, brought comfort to Robert and his wife, Exa, throughout the past three years. Their dedication and care will always be remembered with heartfelt appreciation. The family also extends special thanks to Louisiana Hospice and nurses Ann and Melanie for their compassionate care and support.

Visitation will be held at Mulhearn Funeral Home in West Monroe on Wednesday, September 30,2026 at 1:00 P.M., with services following at 2:00 P.M. in the chapel.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial donations be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Fair Park Baptist Church, a local animal shelter, or a charity of your choice.

Pallbearers will be Brian Harris, Chuck Burkett, John Heard, Steve Owens, Dr. Robert Spatafora, and Rusty Walters. Charles Heard will serve as honorary pallbearer.

Robert's life was one of love, hard work, faith, and appreciation for the beauty of God's creation. He leaves behind a legacy of cherished memories, enduring friendships, and a family who loved him dearly. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.