Albert L. Harris

Albert Lee Harris "AL", a long time resident of Kissimmee, Florida passed away at his home, Friday, March 12th. Al was born in Morley, Missouri on June 4th, 1934. As a young boy he moved to Anderson, Indiana.. He has 5 brothers: Bill, Jerry, Larry, Ronnie and Donnie. Growing up he drove semi-trucks for his family owned trucking business. After high school he joined the Marine Corp in the last part of the Korean War. While in the Marines, he played basketball on their team. General Pollack saw him play and transferred him to Paris Island in S.C. to play for his team. While in S.C. he met and married Janette Peeples. After Al was discharged they went to Indiana to be with his parents and while there was recruted by Montana State College in Boseman, Montana to play basketball. After college Al moved to Florida and started his law enforcement career in Santa Rosa county where his older brother was a deputy sheriff. He left Santa Rosa Sheriff Department to work for the Beverage Department. After there he joined the Florida Highway Patrol and started his 30 year career in Dade City, Florida where his family had moved. He transferred throughout Florida and when the north part of the Florida Turnpike was opened he moved to Kissimmee where he retired from the FHP and raised his two daughters, Debra and Shawn. While in the Highway Patrol, Al was selected to attend the FBI Academy. After retirement he worked for the State Department. When Sheriff Charlie Croft ran for office he asked Al to work for him. Al worked for Osceola County for 5 years and finally retired for the last time. In 2004, Al was diagnosed with Alzheimer's and spent the last year of his life at home with his devoted wife, Janette at his side caring for him. Al left his wife Janette, two daughters, three grandsons and one great-granddaughter. His oldest daughter, Debra Harris Taylor married Scott Taylor from Melbourne who is retired law enforcement and Army. They have three sons: Scott L. Taylor, II who is a Citadel graduate and is serving as a Major in the U.S. Army Special Forces and has served overseas. Debra's middle son, Jarrod L. Taylor is a Lt. with the Osceola County Fire Department. He is married to Alicia Weaver Taylor from Vero Beach, FL. Jarrod has a daughter Haley Michelle Taylor and is expecting a son in July. Debra's youngest son, Brad L. Taylor is still at home being cared for by her and Scott. Al's youngest daughter, Shawn Harris Adams is married to James Adams from Polk County who is employed by South Port Ranch. Al will be missed greatly by his family.

Albert L. Harris

June 4, 1934 - March 12, 2010