Bendetta Harris

Bendetta Harris was born on June 24, 1957, in Chicago, IL, to Rosemarie (Springs) and Jerry C. Roberts. She was their first-born and eldest daughter, lovingly doting on her younger brother, Jerry Roberts Jr., and her little sister, Lisa AnnaMarie, whom she fondly called her "little doll." Bendetta was also a cherished wedding anniversary gift to her parents. Growing up in Chicago Heights, she spent a lot of time in the city of Chicago with her family, often helping in her uncle's drugstore. She proudly graduated from Homewood-Flossmoor High School in 1975, the first of many in her family to be alumni of HFHS. In 1977, she attended Highland Park Community College in Michigan, taking general classes to broaden her knowledge and skills, and later earned a billing and coding certificate from Prairie State College in 2009. In 1976, Bendetta welcomed her first child, Brian Roberts, who became the center of her world. In 1979, she married, and that union brought twins Jarmar and Erica Harris. Together with Brian, they completed Bendetta's universe. She was immensely proud of her children's educational and personal accomplishments and took the greatest pride in each child giving her a wonderful grandchild. Bendetta was a woman of immense love and dedication, touching many lives through her caring nature and unwavering support. For many years, she cared for her mother with tender devotion, up until her mother's passing. Her professional life was marked by a decade of service at the Department of Rehabilitation Services (DORS), where she worked as a compassionate caretaker for the Vaccarello/LaCassa Family. Her church home was Family Harvest in Tinley Park, IL, where she was an active member and volunteer. She dedicated time to serving at homeless shelters and generously donated to mission work overseas.  Bendetta was known for her culinary talents, being a great cook and baker, and enjoyed barbecuing, tending to her lawn, and spending precious moments with her grandchildren, Jalen, Jade, and Xavier. She cherished every moment with her grandchildren, delighting in their achievements and showering them with love and wisdom. Bendetta loved learning about each grandchild's special hobbies and talents, always taking an active interest and encouraging their unique pursuits. Bendetta held a special place in her heart for her nieces and nephews, bringing them joy and guidance. She was one of a kind and loving aunt, always present for major events in their lives and cheering them on with unmatched enthusiasm. She was strong, bright, and deeply devoted to her family. Bendetta will be missed, remembered, and honored by many for her loving, dedicated, and faithful spirit. She is survived by two sons, Brian L. Roberts (Mylea) of Chicago, IL, Jarmar Edward Harris (Susan) of Chicago Heights, IL and one daughter Erica Rose Harris of Chicago, IL; three grandchildren, Jalen Kaleb Harris, Jade Nicole Harris and Xavier Lucas Roberts; one brother, Jerry C. Roberts (Sharon) and one sister, Lisa AnnaMarie Berry (Rush), five nieces; Micaela Francesca Berry-Smith (Julius), Amanda Patrice Roberts, Megan Patrice Berry, Christina Nicole Roberts, Mya Ayn Berry, two nephews; Brandon Clifford Roberts, Matthew Rush-Erik Berry, one great-niece: Lavender Emma-Grace Smith, and one great nephew; Julius Rush-James Smith, as well as a host of cousins, extended family and friends that she held very dear. She was preceded in death by her parents, Jerry Clifford and Rosemarie Roberts. Visitation and Funeral Service will be held on Monday August 5, 2024 from 9am until the time of Service at 12 noon at the Tews-Ryan Funeral Home 18320 Dixie Highway in Homewood. Interment to follow at Washington Memory Garden Cemetery. For additional information contact tews-ryanfh.com or call 708-798-5300 .