Ella Mae Harris

Mrs. Ella Mae Harris, formerly of Newburgh NY, was called to be with the Lord on July 30, 2024, at the age of 97. She was a long-time resident of Virginia residing with her daughter and son-in-law, most recently in Chester, VA.

Ella graduated from Lincoln High School in Tallahassee, Florida. She attended Florida A&M University (FAMU) where she received a Bachelor of Science degree in 1945. She taught school in Florida and New York and loved reading, sewing, and baking. She was devoted to her family, dedicated to her faith, and lived what she believed. Though she is no longer with us in body, her spirit will forever remain in our hearts, guiding us along life’s journey.

Ella Harris leaves to cherish her memory, her devoted children Michael and Kelvin Harris, Temple Hills, MD. Rene Carey (Wardell) Chester, VA. Her grandson, Gerard Barrett of Los Angeles, CA. Brother-in-law,
Solomon Harris, Orlando, FL; Sisters-in-law, Helen Forbes and Lallie Forbes, Miccosukee, FL; Minnie Lewis of Tallahassee, FL; Clara Harris, Orlando FL, and a host of nieces and nephews.

Those who preceded her in death include her husband Bryant Harris, Sr. Son, Bryant Harris, Jr. Her brothers Peter, James, Leonard, and Willie Forbes. Sisters Odessa Green, Ossie Jeff, and Amanda Johnson, and a grandson Brian Patrick Barrett.

Professional services have been entrusted to Joseph M. Johnson & Son Funeral Home, 530 S. Sycamore St., Petersburg, VA, and Rhodes Funeral Home, 18 Lake St, Newburgh, NY 12550. Her Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, August 17, 2024, at 11:00 a.m. at Harrowgate Worship Center, 13811 Harrowgate Road, Chester, VA 23831. This will be followed by the burial on Wednesday, August 21, 2024, at Cedar Hill Cemetery, Newburgh, NY.