Obituary
Mimi Harris, kind and loving mother, super-activist, champion of all those in need, and all-around mensch, threw off her mortal coil and died peacefully on February 7, 2022. Born in Chicago on July 9, 1931, she spent much of her life in the steadfast pursuit of social justice. She became a "passionate change-the-world person" starting in Roger's Park in the 1940's with her mother, Fritzie Markels, lobbying with Independent Voters of Illinois for affordable health care.
Her tireless work to ensure affordable housing, improve public education and fight for peace and women's rights touched many lives. Whether with Jewish Federation’s EZRA Multi-Service Center serving the community, fighting for affordable housing with O.N.E. Organization of the Northeast and local government, or protesting unethical practices with JCUA, Jewish Council on Urban Affairs, she kept busy with the Jewish value, Tikkun Olam and kindness.
She managed the independent movie house, Three Penny Cinema featuring 1st run movies like Monterey Pop and Martin Scorses's first film Who's That Knocking On My Door. She was a leader, mother, sister, friend, mentor, and moral compass to many. Younger people were especially drawn to her. "She pushed people to be better" and "made a wonderful impact on so many lives". Her home was always open with food on the table and a respite to all who needed it.
Miriam “Mimi” Harris, nee Markels, life-long activist, and woman of valor died peacefully on February 7, 2022. Born in Chicago on July 9, 1931, she spent much of her life pursuing justice, whether to provide social services, affordable housing, improve public education or fight for peace and women's rights. Mimi was the beloved wife of the late Sydney Harris; loving mother of Marc (Patsy Comella) Harris, Adam Harris, and Suzanne Harris and stepmother of Paul (Barbara) Harris, Jerry (Veronica) Harris, and the late David Harris; dear grandmother of Josh, Jamie Carmen, Corey, and Keith; devoted daughter of the late Alex and the late Frieda Markels; cherished sister of the late Julian (Robin) Markels and the late Chuck (late Marcia) Markels; treasured aunt, cousin, and friend to many. Mimi was a mentor and moral compass to many. She ran the Three Penny Cinema, worked for and with the Jewish Council on Urban Affairs, EZRA Multi-Services, Organization of the Northeast, local government, and so many more. Her home was always open and provided respite to all who needed it. Service Thursday, 12 Noon CT at The Chapel, 8851 Skokie Blvd., Skokie (at Niles Center Rd.). Her service will be livestreamed at www.goldmanfuneralgroup.com. Under Recent Services, click onto Mimi’s photograph and scroll down to Service Details. Interment Westlawn Cemetery. Donations can be made to JCUA, Jewish Council on Urban Affairs and/or Libenu, www.libenu.org/donate/. Info: The Goldman Funeral Group (847) 478-1600.
Arrangements by Goldman Funeral Group. www.goldmanfuneralgroup.com
Donations
JEWISH COUNCIL ON URBAN AFFAIRS or LIBENU (LIBENU FOUNDATION)