On Wednesday, July 28, 2021, Rebecca “Becky” Rose Harris, extraordinary mother, loving wife, and beloved friend to many passed away peacefully with her family by her side at the age of 64.
Becky is survived by her husband William “Bill” Carter Harris, daughters Olivia DeVall (Rick) and LeeAnne Racelis (John); her grandchildren Belle, Grace, and Carter; Granddog Wrangler; brother Fred Rambacher (Dee); sister Mary Gildow (Rick); and several cousins, nieces, nephews, and brothers and sisters-in-law.
She was preceded in death by her parents (Gene and Rita), niece (Olivia) and nephew (Ricky).
Becky was born on April 28, 1957 in Ironton, Ohio to Frederick “Gene” Rambacher and Rita (Valentine) Rambacher. She graduated from Bellefontaine High School in 1975 and went on to receive an Associate Degree in Court/Conference Reporting from Clark Technical College in 1977.
Following graduation, she was hired by the Supreme Court of West Virginia and began her lifelong career as a Registered Professional Reporter. She was the official court reporter for the 18th Judicial Circuit of Preston County, West Virginia for 35 years. Her first Judge was The Honorable Robert C. Halbritter who, in her words, “took a chance on her,” and referred to her as his “transplanted Buckeye.” Becky’s reply was always, “I may not be from West Virginia, but I got here as fast as I could.” During her career, she stayed on the cutting edge of technology which would eventually give her the opportunity to write in real time for the first hearing-impaired Miss America during the LIV Annual Preston County Buckwheat Festival Coronation. She continued her education and earned the distinguished title of Registered Merit Reporter (RMR). She also proudly served under The Honorable Neil A. Reed and The Honorable Lawrance S. Miller, Jr.
Becky was a devout Catholic and active member of St. Sebastian Catholic Church in Kingwood, West Virginia where she was a member of the Altar Society and for many years served as a lector. The precious gift of continual prayers and unfaltering support from her faith community, or her “church family” as she affectionately referred to everyone, gave comfort to Becky and her family throughout the years. Their outpouring of care and faith meant the world to her.
In the spring of 1978, with his smooth dance moves and iconic platform shoes, Bill “hustled” his way into Becky’s heart. They married on July 28, 1979 and moved to Kingwood where they raised two of the best daughters, Olivia and LeeAnne, who vied daily for the title of favorite daughter.
Becky was an exceptionally loving and strong mother, who raised her daughters with her full heart and eventually transitioned that role into a perfect friendship with each of them. She was so very proud of her girls and their families. She always said of her sons-in-law, Rick and John, that she could not love them any more than if they were her own blood.
Becky was a devoted grandmother who absolutely adored her grandchildren. She spent countless hours bleacher-sitting to watch her “grandladies” play basketball and volleyball, she taught them Monopoly with the patience of Job, and she loved hearing about the girls’ friends and interests. Her grandson Carter brought her infinite joy when snuggling during his favorite shows and Facetiming when they were apart. She loved watching him race cars and trucks around the house. She would peruse the almost daily photo updates in his (nearly 5000+) digital photo albums. Becky had a way of quietly commanding respect from her grandchildren, but she spoiled them with love and adoration and always had their favorite special treats on hand. She always knew when to make the Rambacher cinnamon toast that made everything better, passed on the “famous” family Pink Dip recipe, and made the best pepperoni rolls around.
Becky truly lived her life in the service of others, but for herself, she found joy in golfing, loved trying new quilting patterns, and reveled when she found a great sale. Many of her favorite memories were from her month-long vacations in Florida with Bill where you would find them with their toes in the sand, or from her annual cruises with her GOGO girls.
She always looked for the positive force in any situation. She knew she never had to look far to find someone who was battling harder than her. A fierce supporter of her friends, she always worked to empower others, leaving a legacy of love, compassion, and character that her family and friends will continue to uphold in her honor.
The family would like to extend the warmest and sincerest thanks and appreciation to Dr. Azar, Dr. Saunders, her angels in the Mon General Infusion Center whom she loved like daughters, and all of the wonderful nursing staff who went above and beyond to care for not only her needs, but those of her family.
Cremation services were provided by Morgan Funeral Home. The family will receive visitors at Morgan Funeral Home in Reedsville, WV on Sunday, August 1, between 2 and 6 p.m. at a memorial to honor Becky’s legacy. Additionally, there will be a wake service at 5:30 p.m. at Morgan Funeral Home.
A funeral mass will be held on Monday, August 2, at 10 a.m. at St. Sebastian Catholic Church in Kingwood, WV with Rev. S.A. Arokiadass H.G.N. presiding.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Wig Bank through the Mon Health Medical Center Foundation. https://www.monhealth.com/main/donate-angel-fund.