A celebration of the life of
Dr. William H. Harris, PhD, will occur on
Thursday, February 20, 2025
Viewing 9:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.
Service 11:00 a.m.
Vine Memorial Baptist Church
5600 W Girard Avenue
Philadelphia, PA 19131
Interment: Friday, February 21,2025
Delaware Veterans Memorial Cemetery
Dr. William H. Harris
William Harding Harris, son of Zeola Harris Reid, was born February 26, 1922 in Winston-Salem, North Carolina. He departed this life February 3, 2025, in Lansdale Pennsylvania.
He received his early education in the Winston Salem, North Carolina public schools. After graduating from high school, William attended West Virginia State University. He was initiated into Omega Psi Phi Fraternity in March, 1944
Shortly after entering college, William was drafted into the United States Army were he proudly served in the 92nd Infantry Division known as the Buffalo Soldiers during World War II. He was awarded a Purple Heart for injuries sustained during battle. William received an Honorable Discharge as a decorated Combat Veteran. After the war, he traveled throughout Europe and Africa for a period of three years.
He eventually returned to West Virginia State College to complete his Bachelor's degree. William married Jessie Mae Wiggs and they started their lives together in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania finding employment at the School District Of Philadelphia as educators. During their marriage they had one child, a son Reginald. William received a Ph.D. in Economics from Penn State University.
He also received a Master’s Degree from West Chester University in History. He also took courses at University of Pennsylvania, and Temple University. During his educational endeavors William continued his employment as an educator and administrator in the School District of Philadelphia until his retirement.
William later married Phyllis Friend and he was an influence to her children Mark Henry and Kendra Henry. During their marriage William and Phyllis enjoyed traveling the country and participating in community activities.
Throughout his adulthood, William was a proud member of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity. He participated in all aspects of the fraternity organization and remained active in the Chapter and National activities until he was unable to do so. He also enjoyed gardening and attending various flower shows. Most of all William enjoyed writing poetry. He was fortunate to have a book of his poems entitled: “ Everyday Sunshine: Led My Way” published in 2022. He credits his
mother for encouraging him to pursue reading, writing and education and for all of his accomplishments.
He leaves to cherish his memory a son Reginald, and wife Natalie, Bear Delaware, his niece Cynthia Harris, Raleigh, North Carolina, niece Cheryl Johnson, Charlotte, North Carolina. Grandchildren Janell Harris, and Lauren Harris, Newark, Delaware, Grand niece Gabrielle Johnson, Gaithersburg, Maryland. He was preceded in death by his sister Daisy R. Chambers of Winston-Salem, North Carolina, and brother Calvin R. Harris of Greensboro ,North Carolina.
