Florence Olivia Harris (Handy)

Obituary Florence Olivia Harris was the daughter of the late Hattie Jackson Handy and James E. Handy. The Handy family is an old family, which has roots on the Eastern Shore since the mid-1800s. James E. Handy was a gentleman farmer, businessman and a land owner, of which there were few such property owners in the black community at that time. Olivia was born in Salisbury, Maryland. She was one of four children. The quartet of four siblings were inseparable all of their lives. “One for all and all for one” was their motto. A devotion to their nucleus family unit, created a life of stability. The longevity genes has blessed all four of the Handy children. Olivia lived to the Golden Age of ninety-seven (97) years in robust health. Andrea lived to be the age of 95 and James Otis, the age of 93. They are survive by their youngest sister, Mary Handy Purnell. Olivia received her undergraduate education in Maryland. She was an excellent student, who also studied French. She also was a college basketball player who competed in jitterbug dancing competitions. Olivia received her Master's degree in Science from Temple University in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. She was a teacher in Secondary Education throughout her career. She also loved to do crossword puzzles all of her life. Olivia was known as “Libby” but she also recognized the nickname “Stitch,” because of her creative hobbies, vocation as a seamstress, creating all things related to sewing and needlework. She made hundreds of babies layettes and beautiful children's clothing with embroidery details. She was the dear auntie who always carried sweet treats and candies for the children to enjoy. Olivia or “Libby” had a bright smile, which was infectious, a quick wit for easy laughter and good cheers. She often said “treat people the way you wish to be treated.” Her final wishes were to return to Salisbury, Maryland. Now she is reunited at the home place with her beloved father and dear brothers, Andrew and Otis. She is survived by: her sister, Mary H. Purnell; niece, Joyce Handy; nephew, Drew Handy; one goddaughter, Flora Handy; a faithful friend, Arnenitta Herndon; cousins who were like sister and brother, Teresa and Harry, and a host of friends, colleagues, coworkers and devoted caregivers. Lovingly Submitted ~ The Family

Florence Olivia Harris (Handy)

January 17, 1922 - January 17, 2019