Martha Harris

Martha C. (Tot) Harris, 96, passed away peacefully on January 28, 2023.  She was born on January 21, 1927, in St. Louis, MO to Harry and Genevieve Carter.  At the age of 5, her family relocated to Jacksonville, FL. She was a Landon High Lionette before receiving her bachelor’s degree as part of the first graduating class from Florida State University in 1947.  Tot lived most of her life in Jacksonville, FL, where she taught school for over 40 years.  Soon after retiring from teaching, she worked with the Supervisor of Elections in Duval County and served as a precinct captain until shortly before moving to Gulf Breeze, FL in 2018.

Tot married the love of her life, Ward, in 1951, and remained together for 61 years until his passing in 2012.  The fact that he was a life-long Gator and she a dedicated Nole only served to make football season more interesting.  She loved life and cherished her many long-lasting friendships.  She was a devoted Catholic who supervised the parish gift shop for many years.  She was a lover of knowledge and an avid reader and fisherman.  She despised losing at cards (or anything else).   Tot loved spending time with her family and friends.  She moved to Gulf Breeze and enjoyed life at The Arbors from the day they first opened in March 2018.  She is survived by her children:  Susan (Jim) Antoon, Lee (Jeannie) Harris, Anne (Bob) Blankenship, Bill (Susan) Harris, Amy (Gregg) Morrill, Mike (Sheila) Harris; 17 grandchildren; and 25 great-grandchildren. Arrangements are being made through Rose Lawn Funeral Home in Gulf Breeze, FL.  A memorial mass will be held at 11:00 am on Saturday, February 4th, at St. Ann’s Catholic Church, 100 Daniel Drive, Gulf Breeze, FL 32562.  A viewing will occur before the service starting at 10:00 am.  Tot will be placed to rest alongside her husband in Jacksonville, FL at Arlington Park Cemetery, 6920 Lone Star Road, Jacksonville, FL 32211 at 11:00 am on Saturday, February 11, 2023.