Independence – Vernon R. “Rick” Harris, age 76, of Independence, Kentucky, previously of Burlington, Kentucky, passed away on Monday, August 25, 2025, at Hospice of St. Elizabeth in Edgewood, Kentucky.
Born on September 15, 1948, in Covington, Kentucky, Rick was a retired Instructor of Diesel Mechanics at Gateway Community and Technical College. Throughout his career, he shared his expertise with students, initially as a Diesel Mechanic and later as an esteemed educator. A dedicated member of Burlington Baptist Church, Rick had a passion for Bluegrass music and was a skilled musician who played numerous string instruments and the piano.
He is survived by his loving wife of 59 years, Frances Harris, three children, a brother, eight grandchildren, and a great-grandson. Rick was preceded in death by his parents, sister, and brothers.
Visitation will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, September 2, 2025, at Kento-Boo Baptist Church in Florence, with funeral services following at 1:00 p.m. Interment will take place at Forest Lawn Memorial Park in Erlanger, Kentucky. Middendorf-Bullock Funeral Home in Erlanger is assisting the family with arrangements.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Burlington Baptist Church or Kento-Boo Baptist Church.
To honor Vernon “Rick” Harris, memorial trees or flowers can be sent to the family through the flower store.
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