Marty Harris

Marty Harris, 65, of Lee County, passed away Friday, February 21, 2014, at her residence. A memorial service will be conducted at 11:00 a.m. Tuesday, February 25, 2014 at St. Patrick's Episcopal Church. Rev. Jay Weldon will officiate. The family will receive friends immediately following the service.

Marty Harris was born January 26, 1949 in St. John's, Newfoundland. She is survived by her husband, Jeffrey Harris and her Mother, Liz Meilton.
Marty achieved greater public awareness of the healing bond between humans and animals and helped more people live happier, healthier lives through positive connections with pet therapy animals. Paws Patrol was established in 1996 after Marty adopted Hero from the Albany Humane Society. Marty was a licensed Pet Therapy instructor and evaluator. She taught Humane Education classes and provided information and resources for people that want to help those with disabilities. She educated individuals and families on the ways companion animals can improve health and well-being in everyday life.

Our hearts are broken by the loss of our "Hero", Marty Harris, but our spirits are lifted knowing that her gentle soul left the world just a little bit better for her presence in it. As long as shelter dogs are adopted and the Pet Partners teams keep volunteering; the world will continue to be just a little bit better every day. Marty loved all living beings and believed in the sanctity of all life.

Marty founded Paws Patrol, Incorporated in 2000 and that year she also won the Jefferson Award established in 1972 by Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis, U.S. Senator Robert Taft, Jr. and Sam Beard as the 'Nobel Prize' for Public Service. "To recognize, inspire and activate volunteerism and public service in communities, workplaces and schools across America." After Katrina, Marty made two trips to Gulfport for animal rescue. Marty was a member of the Board of Directors of the Albany Humane Society for six years. She and Donna Strickland, executive director of the Albany Humane Society have fought for animal's rights and against dog fighting in our community.

Paws Patrol, Incorporated was named Volunteer Albany Non-Profit Group of the Year in 2006 and the Albany Area Chamber of Commerce Non-Profit of the Year in 2008. Paws Patrol, Incorporated was Georgia's only Delta Society Pet Partners ® affiliate volunteer group for many years. Paws Patrol Pet Partners are proud to continue our chosen volunteer path for those who need us. We are a strong group of animal teammates thanks to Marty's guidance and will continue to visit those who are lonely, ill or disabled. Through their unconditional love and acceptance, the animals have brought smiles to autistic children's faces, affection to lonely people in nursing homes, and lovingly interact with the disabled.

Marty's family wishes to thank everyone for their calls, visits, food, flowers, and other kindness. Paws Patrol Pet Partners will serve as honorary pallbearers at the memorial service at St. Patrick's Episcopal Church.

Donations may be made to the Albany Humane Society, 1703 W. Oakridge DR., Albany, GA 31707