Obituary of Tom Harris

Brother Tom Harris of 246 Ft. Wilderness Road, Whittier, completed his work on this side of eternity as he entered into Heaven to begin a new life with his Lord on Wednesday, Jan. 6, 2010. Tom was born May 27, 1931 to the late Lola A. and Eva Lackey Harris in Alexander County, NC. He was preceded in death by a brother, Fred G. Harris. He is survived by the love of his life and wife of 58 years, Emily Morrow Harris. He was an exceptionally loving and dedicated father to three remaining children, Deborah Carpenter of Denver, NC, Rosalyn Robinson of Bryson City, and Craig Harris of Clyde. He was a dearly loved father-in-law to Barry Carpenter and Gary Robinson. Known as "Pap" to grandchildren Keara Carpenter Ashe, Jessica Carpenter, Emilee Robinson, James and Jared Robinson, he will always be remembered as one who loved without limits or conditions. Great grandchildren Camden Ashe, Maura James, and Audrey James were fortunate to have known him and been loved greatly by him in their young lives. He is also survived by brothers, James "Bud" Harris of Taylorsville and Robert "Bob" Harris of Hiddenite; sisters, Katherine Harris Lambert of Conover and Shirley Harris Moore of Hiddenite. Brother Tom is survived by a host of brothers and sisters in Christ, some of which he served with and some of which he served by in either case, was a joyous service for him. He leaves behind a radio ministry audience, which was his last active service and one to which he remained committed until he was called home. He is also survived by many, many acquaintances from along the way and his message to all would be "I want to see you on the other side." His heart's desire was loving others while leading the way to Jesus. Tom joined the military in 1948 and was always very honored and proud to have served with the 82nd Airborne Division of Fort Bragg. After surrendering his live to the Lord, Tom attended and graduated from Piedmont Bible College in Winston-Salem, with degrees in theology. His ministry had already begun as he pastured at New Hope Baptist Church in Statesville while attending college. He continued to fulfill God's call as pastor of Pooles Chapel Baptist Church in Denver, NC for 11 years and at Victory Baptist Church for 27 years. While at Victory, he began his radio ministry. For many years, he shared his love of Jesus with the little ones through a daycare and kindergarted program he started. Preacher Tom's ministry was never limited to a specific congregation or group but to anyone nad all as his heart was full of God's love to spread the word and the good message of Hope.