Lay Heron “Harry” Handford was called home unexpectedly on Sunday, June 11, 2017. Harry was born on May 20, 1955, in Forest, MS, to the late Dora and Tommy Handford. He attended school in Jackson, MS, and migrated to Illinois after his mother’s death in the 1970’s. Harry was from a big family of 10 children. He enjoyed spending time with his numerous grandchildren. In the summer, he enjoyed planting his annual garden and going fishing by the river as often as possible. Harry was a homebody and you could always find him sitting on the front porch laughing and spending time with his family and friends. Harry made a great impact on those who knew him. 34 years ago, Harry married Elmira Cooks. They raised eight children together. He leaves behind his wife, Elmira; children, Sharaine (Jason) Dirden, Terry Cooks, Shannon (Ilva) Smith, Jonathan Cooks, Frankie Cooks, Tiffany Handford, Stephanie Handford, and Justin Handford; and many grandchildren, siblings, nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends who will miss him greatly. Preceding him in death are his brothers, James, Richard, and Mylesdale; and a sister, Coralee. Visitation will be held at Proko Funeral Home on Friday, June 16th, from 10:30 a.m. until the time of the service at 12:30 p.m. Interment will follow at Green Ridge Cemetery.Proko Funeral Home & Crematory5111-60th StreetKenosha, WI 53144Phone: (262) 654-3533Visit and Sign Lay’s Online Memorial Book at:www.prokofuneralhome.com