Alfred James Harris Sr.

Alfred James Harris, Sr. age 80 of Chicago Heights, IL, formerly of Tazewell, VA was peacefully called home Wednesday, June 26, 2019 surrounded by his family. He was born October 27, 1938 in Thorpe, WV and was a son of the late Wert and Susie Mae Harris. Alfred enlisted into the United States Army in 1961, at the age of 16. During his enlistment he was awarded the “Sharpshooter” badge (Rifle M1) and the Good Conduct Medal; he donated to several military organizations. Mr. Harris attended Stillman College, where he received his Bachelor’s of Science Degree. On February 16, 1963 he married the love of his life, Vera L. Dennis of Tazewell, VA; afterwards he followed his brother, John Harris, and moved his family to Chicago, IL. There he pursued a career as a Chemist, being employed for the majority of his life at Witco Chemical in Chicago, IL. He enjoyed listening to blues music and watching Westerns – Cowboy shows while enjoying a cold beer. The most memorial times he had had was at family gatherings and just being in the midst of his loved ones. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his loving wife, Vera L. Dennis Harris; four brothers, William, John, Frank and David Harris; two sisters, Barbara Edith Harris Davis and Lillian Johnson; one granddaughter, Catherine Harris. Those who survive to cherish his memory include his brother, Garrett Harris and wife, Janice of Staten Island, NY; five sons, Rickey Harris and wife, Katherine of Dixmoor, IL, Alfred Harris of Atlanta, GA, Mickey Harris of Chicago Heights, IL, John Harris and wife, Lisa of Killeen, TX and Angelo Harris of Dixmoor, IL; one daughter, Vera Porch and husband, Lynell of Crete, IL; a host of grandchildren, great-grandchildren; nieces and nephews; other family members and friends also survive. Funeral Services for Mr. Harris will be conducted at 2:00 p.m. Saturday, July 6, 2019 at the Hurst-Scott Funeral Home Chapel in Tazewell, VA with Todd French officiating; burial will follow at the Maplewood Cemetery in Tazewell, VA. Pallbearers will be John Eric Harris, Jr., Dominique Pope, Lamond Brock, Kornell Williams, Deon Davis and Leon Davis. Honorary pallbearers will be Rickey Harris, Mickey Harris, Alfred Harris, Angelo Harris, John Harris and Lynell Porch. Military Graveside Rites will be conducted by members of the Barns-Beavers VFW Post #7136 in Tazewell, VA. The family will receive friends at the funeral home from 1:00 p.m. till 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, July 6, 2019. Hurst-Scott Funeral Home in Tazewell, VA is serving the family of Mr. Harris and those wishing to express sympathy online may do so at www.hurstscottfuneralhomes.com.

Alfred James Harris Sr.

October 27, 1938 - June 26, 2019