Deacon Thomas Edward Harris

Deacon Thomas Edward Harris, 84, of Lynchburg, VA, went home to be with his Lord and Savior on Tuesday, November 1, 2022, at Lynchburg General Hospital. He was preceded in death by his wife of 45 years, Joyce Curtis Harris. The last few years of his life he battled with illness but he was determined to keep on going. He was not one to seek out sympathy. Some would say that he was a tough old bird. Thomas was a no-nonsense kind of guy who showed his love with quiet support. We would often find him wearing his favorite tattered collared t-shirt with the words “order my steps” on the front sitting at his computer checking emails or relaxing in his big comfy recliner. He had a unique sense of humor appreciated mostly by those who loved him. He was a dedicated Washington Redskins fan and enjoyed trash talking with fans of rival teams.

Born December 17, 1937, in Bedford County, VA he was the son of the last Wiley Harris and Jennie Reid. He joined Rivermont Baptist Church at an early age and later rededicated his life to Holcomb Rock Baptist Church where he became a faithful member until he was no longer able to attend due to illness. He served as chairman of the Deacon Board for a number of years and sang on the Men’s, Senior, and Mass Choirs. He served in the United States Air Force as an Intelligence Operator. He retired from Erisson where he held several positions including foreman.
Thomas was the loving father of two daughters, Mrs. Brenda H. Cobbs and her devoted husband, Luther Cobbs of Pamplin and Ms. Lisa Harris of Lynchburg and a niece/daughter, Vonetta Pressley of Pleasantville, NJ. He was preceded in death by two brothers, James (Easter) Harris and Ivan (Jungle) Harris. He is survived by one brother, Fred L. Harris of Lynchburg and two sisters, Carolyn Harris of Memphis, TN and Edith Harris of Lynchburg. Three loving nieces, Jennifer Foster of Surry, VA, Shereen Phelps of Lynchburg, and Whitney Harris of Lynchburg, and one nephew, Avery Harris of Lynchburg. A granddaughter, I’nia Marshall of Pamplin and a grandson, Xavier Lewis of Pamplin. A devoted church family, Jeremy Jackson and Peggy “Ruth” Anderson and a host of other relatives and friends.

He lived a full life on his own terms. We find comfort that he has transitioned to be with the Lord, his loving wife, and his mother whom he adored.

A Celebration of Life will be held Monday, November 7, 2022, at 1:00 p.m. at Holcomb Rock Baptist Church, his remains will lie in state one hour prior to the service. Interment will follow in the church cemetery.