Harris Daniel Mcgirt

Harris McGirt, 79, of Lake Worth, Florida passed away on June 5th after battling many health complications for the past few years. Harris was born October 1, 1935, and raised in Asheville, N.C. His parents were Dr. John Shaw McGirt and Golda Cline McGirt. Harris joined the U.S. Navy after completing two years at Mars Hill College, assigned to Navigation on the air craft carrier, Antietam. Harris was a champion ping-pong player while serving in the Navy. After completing his Navel service Harris attended Lincoln Memorial University on a tennis scholarshjp. It was there that he met Joan (Lambert), and they married in August 1959. Upon graduating from college Harris and his family moved to Lake Worth in 1960 where he accepted a tennis coaching and teaching position at Palm Beach Junior College. Harris was the tennis coach at PBJC until 1973. After earning his Doctorate degree from Virginia Tech Harris helped open the South campus of PBJC on the grounds of FAU. Harris was appointed Dean of Student Services, and enjoyed every minute working with "his" kids. Harris retired from PBJC in 1995 after 35 years of service. Harris is survived by Joan, his son, Michael Harris McGirt (Susan), daughter Jane Spitz (Jamie}. grandchildren Austin, Christley, Caroline, Andrew, and Haleigh, and his brother John McGirt (Margaret) of Waynesville N.C ., along with many nieces and nephews. Harris enjoyed all things having to do with water and boating. The family spent many happy memory-filled vacations in the Keys. Harris loved all college sports and became an "Honorary Gator" through his children who are alumni. Harris will be remembered by the kind and loving gentle way he carried himself. Always a Southern gentleman, greeting all with a "Sir" or "Ma'am". Funeral Services will be held on Saturday June 13th at Palms West Funeral Home, 110 Business Park Way Royal Palm Beach, Fl., gathering at 5:00p.m., service at 6:00p.m. In lieu of flowers, donations in Harris' memory may be made to: Lake Worth Dollars For Scholars c/o Lake Worth High School 1701 Lake Worth Rd . Lake Worth, Fl. 33460.