Mr. Vernon Ray Harris, age 75, of Woolwine passed away peacefully at home surrounded by family on Monday, August 22, 2022. He was born July 13, 1947, in Patrick County, Virginia, to the late James E. Harris and Clynda Bowling Harris. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother, J.E. Harris.
Mr. Harris was a career sawmiller and forester and was co-owner of Harris Brothers Lumber and later Hilltop Pallet, Inc. Born and raised in Patrick County, he enjoyed hunting, fishing, and being outdoors in the county he called “God’s Country.” He loved to write and sing Southern Gospel songs and was a local celebrity. He was especially proud of being invited to sing on the Grand Ole Opry stage. His favorite way to spend time was being “Papa” to his grandsons. He was a beloved husband, father, and grandfather, and a friend to all. He will be missed dearly, but all who loved him take comfort knowing that Our Lord keeps his promises.
Mr. Harris is survived by his wife of 54 years, Linda Belcher Harris, of the home; two daughters and sons-in-law, Amanda (Tim) Hughes of Stuart, and Julie (Bobby) Alley, of Stuart; four grandsons, Nicholas Hughes, Nathan Hughes, and Grayson Alley, all of Stuart, and Eric Alley of Cincinnati, OH; two sisters and brothers-in-law, Bonnie (Lonnie) Dillon, of Woolwine, Wanda (Jeff) Gibson, of Cary, NC; and one brother and sister-in-law, Jason (Kim) Harris of Stuart.
A memorial service will be held Friday, August 26, 2022, at 1:00 PM at the Moody Funeral Home Chapel in Stuart with Pastor Shaun Draughn officiating. The family will receive friends two hours prior to the service, from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM, at Moody Funeral Home in Stuart. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Mountain Valley Hospice and Palliative Care, 18981 Jeb Stuart Hwy., Stuart, VA 24171. Online condolences may be sent to www.moodyfuneralservices.com
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