East Dallas Times

Paul Harris shows off his artwork. — Courtesy Photo

Community Contribution

Some seniors find fulfillment by developing unfound talents when moving into the retirement phase of life.

Paul Harris, at age 92, just happens to be an exception. He’s had an interest in art since his elementary school days and retirement has simply given him more time to pursue his hobby.

Paul and his wife, Clara, have been residents at C. C. Young for nearly two years. He was the featured artist at The Point, Center for Arts and Education during June. He pursues his love of art with the Great Lakewood Shepherd’s Center Art Club. He takes Tai Chi classes weekly, exercises his brain on Dakim Brain Fitness computers, and also participates in chair aerobics twice a week.

Harris’ third-grade teacher had the students do a “copy me” project where they had all the same pieces of a picture and had to put them together just as the teacher had done. Everyone mimicked the teacher exactly except Harris — whose vision was to see the sun shining from behind the trees instead of shining from the sky. His teacher thought that point of view was exceptional and called his parents to tell them.

Harris’s sister was six years older than he and majored in art at SMU. After graduation, she taught art at Pleasant Grove and later at Highland Park’s Armstrong School. With her guidance and the support of his family and teachers, Harris continued to dabble in the arts in a variety of formats, including watercolor, oils, carving, silver smithing, painting china, paper making, and ceramics. Whatever his sister did, he learned as well.

After returning from World War II, Harris followed in his father’s footsteps and began a career in education. Starting as principal of David Crockett School, he continued in education until his retirement in 1981. At that time, he and his wife, Clara, purchased a frame shop on “Miracle Mile” — Lover’s Lane and the Dallas North Tollway area — which they owned until turning it over to their son in 1986.

Paul Harris has seen multiple changes since he was born in Vickery, Texas, in 1918. Vickery was a town of about 600 people, just outside Dallas, and was considered “in the country.” His father owned a Model T and ran a jitney service into Dallas — which started near where the M Streets are now. 

Vickery was annexed into Dallas in 1945. The town was located in the area of Loop 12, State Highway 75, or Central Expressway.

Harris has three children and eight grandchildren. He credits his strong family, the love and support of his teachers, his positive attitude, and his many blessings for his continued health and longevity. 

Thanks to Jen Griffin of C.C. Young retirement center, for providing the words and picture.