MISD Mourning Passing of Longtime Bus Driver Bill Harris

Dear Mercer Island Community,

The Mercer Island School District is mourning the passing of longtime bus driver Bill Harris.

Bill, a Mercer Island resident, passed away Tuesday.

Bill spent 16 years as a bus driver starting with the District in September of 2001. He also had several other roles with Mercer Island schools. He was an IMS student supervisor for 11 years while also being a bus driver and bus driver trainer, spent two years as an IMS paraeducator, and then six years as substitute bus driver and substitute paraeducator. Bill was with the District for 24 years in these roles, retiring in November of 2025.

Bill embodied the true meaning of belonging. He was compassionate and caring and built lasting relationships with colleagues and students. He was a mentor and source of wisdom and kindness for many of his peers and many of our students. He showed up for kids on the bus, in our schools and on the athletic field. He had a wicked sense of humor and huge heart. He will be deeply missed!

Bill was a strong supporter of MIHS athletics teams regularly attending games at South Mercer Playfields, in the MIHS gym, and at Island Crest Park.  

Bill’s family is planning a Rosary Memorial Service at St. Monica on a date to be determined. When we know more about this service, we will inform our community.

We will miss Bill greatly and our thoughts are with his family, friends, and MISD colleageues in this difficult time.