Born November 22, 1938 in Houston, Harris led a life marked by creativity, humor and dedication to family and community.
Harris attended West University Elementary and Lamar High Schools. The University of Houston helped develop a strong foundation for his diverse and creative career.
Harris was a talented animator, illustrator, voice actor and designer. His profession blossomed at an early age and developed throughout his lifetime. He began his calling as a set designer and engineer at the Alley Theater and as artist for the University of Houston’s Daily Cougar newspaper. His college career was cut short when he was drafted into the United States Army. He served his country in the 9th Cavalry, 24th Infantry Division from 1961 to 1963 in Augsburg, Germany, and used his creative talents to contribute to the “Stars and Stripes” newspaper and his local Division newsletter.
Upon Harris’ return to the states, he took a position as illustrator and designer at Hugh Cohn Advertising Agency. Here he created a variety of corporate logos used by businesses in both local and national markets. In 1975, Harris became art director at KHOU TV where his art highlighted on-air daily news stories. As a courtroom illustrator, he brought life to many high-profile Houston criminal court cases.
A few years later Harris set out on his own. He created the “Motion Pixel Company” to concentrate on his original love of cartooning and animation. This move developed a passion for producing computer-generated feature films and 3D applications for his many creations. It also gave him the opportunity to illustrate several books, most notably, “Tales of the Texians,” an illustration of Texas history.
Harris’ lifetime fascination with audio and video engineering led him to develop new viewing procedures and techniques for 3D video. He obtained multiple patents for these innovations. His animation projects won him two Emmy Awards and a Telly Award. In the late 80’s, Harris shared his love of art and knowledge of the industry by accepting a position at the Art Institute of Houston. Here he taught young artists animation and art history to inspire a new generation of talent.
Beyond his professional life, Harris was a devoted father and grandfather deeply involved in his community. He served as a father figure and mentor to many children within the neighborhood and beyond. He was a master of school projects, a dedicated Boy Scout Leader, and a go-to source for general knowledge.
Harris is preceded in death by his beloved wife, Molly Milam. He is survived by his brother, Henry Milam; sister-in-law, Carol Milam; son, Matthew Milam; daughter-in-law, Laura Milam; daughter, Hilary Adams; son-in-law, Kevin Adams; and grandchildren, Blake Adams, Savannah Adams, and Isabelle Milam.
A service to celebrate Harris’ life will be held at Sugar Grove Church of Christ, 11600 West Airport Blvd, Meadows Place, TX. 77477, on Saturday, November 2nd, 2024, at 1 pm. A time of visitation with the family will follow.
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