Clayburn West Harris, age 92, entered into eternal rest on March 26, 2021 at his home in Glenpool, Okahoma. Clayburn was born in Hobart, Oklahoma on January 23, 1929 to Linnie “Jewel” and Clayburn Harris. He attended high school, then entered into the United States Marines at the age of 17, as a way to help his mother financially. He served during WWII as well as during the Korean War.
Clayburn went to work driving a wheat truck, where he met the owner’s sister, Winona. They were married on April 16, 1949 in Texas. Clayburn and Winona welcomed three wonderful children, who filled their home with many happy memories. Always a man of integrity and hard work, Clayburn helped raise his siblings at the age of ten. He began helping out at a local dairy before school started, so he could help his mother. His hard work continued in the heating and air conditioning field as an HVAC specialist. After many years of working for others, he opened W.H. Service. Clayburn belonged to the Refrigeration Service Engineering Society (RSES), while Winona belonged to the women’s chapter (RSESA). They made many friends and memories over the years. Once a marine, always a marine. This statement rings true for Clayburn Harris. He enjoyed being a member of the Commemorative Air Force rebuilding WW2 planes, where he held the honorary title of Colonel. He was able to travel with Winona on an Honor Flight, that takes veterans to Washington, D.C. to visit the war memorials. He and other veterans swapped war stories. He recalled being in a fox hole and being surrounded by the enemy, but God heard the prayers of his grandmother. His life was spared, and he was able to donate his rare blood to save others. When he had down time, Clayburn spent his quiet time doing crossword puzzles. He loved to help Winona take the elderly on the city van, where he had several admirers. His charm was even used on the ladies, where he did his banking. Even after his passing, Clayburn is still making leaving his mark on the world. He will be honored in an upcoming congressional meeting with Jim Inhoffe, and his name will be put on a plaque in the United States Capitol.
Clayburn is preceded in death by his parents; Clayburn and Jewel Harris, two grandchildren; Marcus McMinn and West Harris.
Clayburn is survived by his wife; Winona Harris, children; Donald Harris and his wife Wanda, Diana McMinn and her husband Jimmie, and David Harris and his wife Laura, grandchildren; Aaron, Josh, Jason, Renee, Logan, Rayvnn, Joshua Mosley, and Michelle, 17 great-grandchildren and 14 great-great-grandchildren.
A private graveside service will be held at Floral Haven Memorial Gardens.
