Ron Harris, 81, has been a barber in downtown Kennett, Mo. for 62 years, and the owner of Harris Barber Shop for 57 years. He has seen Kennett go through many changes, recalling a past, when on Saturday nights, downtown Kennett was the place to be.


Harris is a father of two, a grandfather of five and a new great-grandfather of one. His wife passed away two and half years ago and he now lives alone.


The barber shop can see anywhere from 15 to 25 people a day — sometimes more, sometimes less. “Everyone here is like family,” Harris said. A diverse clientele from all walks of life come in for haircuts, conversation and camaraderie.


Even at 81, Harris still works five days a week, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. On his free days, twice a week, he spends much of his time in his wood shop making wood furniture, bowls, duck call whistles or whatever else catches his fancy. It is a hobby he has been doing for decades. When asked when will he retire he replied, “Two days before my funeral.”


For Harris, the shop is a welcome solace to being at home alone.

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Ron Harris enjoys a quiet moment in his back yard with his cat, “Fluffy,” at his home in Kennett, Mo. Except for his cat, Harris lives alone.