Fredrick William Harms

Fredrick William Harms, born August 21, 1939, left this world peacefully in his sleep at home on December 10, 2024.

He was born in St. Louis, Missouri, to Mary Rosalind (Reese) Harms and Marvin E. Harms and was one of seven children. After graduation from Wright City High School, Fred enlisted in the U.S. Army where he served five years as a military intelligence officer. Early in his enlistment, he met Rose Mary Tatum in Huntsville, Alabama. He was transferred to Munich, Germany, where they were married on July 4, 1964. After leaving the military, Fred graduated from the University of New Orleans, was recruited by the FBI, moved to Carterville in 1970, and retired from federal employment in 1996.

He enjoyed maintaining his home and yard, was heavily involved at Holy Spirit Catholic Church in Carterville, but was most happy visiting with his children and grandchildren. Fred was a kind man and a gentle soul who would help anyone in need. He knew no strangers, was loved by all who had the good fortune to know him, and will be sorely missed by his family and a multitude of friends.

Fred was preceded in death by his mother, father, three sisters, and one brother.  

He is survived by the following family: his wife, Rose Mary (Tary) Harms; daughters, Stacie Speith (Jeff), and Shannon Harms; grandchildren, Cecilia Laake, Cary Laake, Croix Laake, Caroline Speith, and Bennett Speith; sister, Rosalind Kafoury; brother, Dulany Harms (Dawn); aunt, Joan Reese; and numerous cousins, nieces, and nephews.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:00 a.m., Tuesday, December 17, 2024, at Holy Spirit Catholic Church, 300 Pine Street, Carterville, with Fr. Joseph Brown, S.J. officiating.  A prayer service will be held at 5:00 p.m., Monday, December 16, 2024, at Riggin-Pillatsch & Burke Funeral Home in Carterville, with visitation to immediately follow.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to St. Jude Children’s Hospital to honor Fred’s deep concern for children.

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