Paula Rustyne Harris February 15, 1946 - July 15, 2024

Paula “Rustyne” Harris, of Oklahoma City, passed away peacefully on July 15, 2024 at the age of 78.

Born on February 15, 1946 in Gray, TX, Rustyne will be remembered for her stubbornness, determination and generosity.  While growing up on a farm, she became an accomplished barrel racer, displaying her remarkable equestrian skills and love for horses as well as her lifelong affection for dogs.

Rustyne married US Air Force Sgt. Melvin Harris in 1967 and they celebrated 42 years of marriage prior to his passing in May 2010.  They settled in Oklahoma, raised three children and prior to retiring in 2017, Rustyne spent her career employed as a bookkeeper.  Together they shared a passion for camping, where they cherished the tranquility of nature and the memories created with family and friends.  Rustyne’s love for country line dancing and playing cards, brought her immense joy and countless friendships.  In past years, she was an active member of the Central Oklahoma Classic Chevy Club where she shared the love of vintage cars and the representation of a simpler time in life.  As a devoted member of the American Sewing Guild, she spent countless hours teaching, sewing, quilting and crafting beautiful projects and inspiring others with her skills.  Prior to her illness, Rustyne enjoyed volunteering weekly at the Hugs Project helping assemble care packages for returning Troops, Veterans and First Responders.  Her dedication to this cause demonstrated her unwavering support and compassion for those who serve.  Rustyne made sure to personally thank any veteran she ever saw!

Rustyne is proceeded in death by her husband, Melvin Harris, and too many friends and family members to mention.  She is survived by her children, Paul Russell (Connie) Harris, Stephanie (Michael) Shelts and Añdrea (Dale) Black; her grandchildren, Brittany Harris, Landon (Shelby) Owen, Samantha (Adam) Richardson, Logan (Aaron) Shelts, Olivia Lloyd and Blake (Danae) Shelts and 6 great-grandchildren.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to:

American Heart Association

• online at heart.org or via mail to PO Box 840692, Dallas, TX 75284

Alzheimer’s Association

• online at alz.org or via mail to 225 N. Michigan Ave. Floor 17, Chicago, IL 60601

The Hugs Project

• online at thehugsproject.com or via mail to 4449 NW 50^th St, Oklahoma City, OK 73112

Any Veteran Charity or Organization