Deacon Frank Harris, Jr., also known as “Nick,” was born on February 12, 1946, to Frank Harris, Sr. and Martha Grayer Harris. At ten years old, he accepted Christ at the New Morning Star Baptist Church, led by Pastor W.M. King. He received his education in the Demopolis School System and graduated from US Jones High School in 1964. Shortly after, Frank was drafted into the United States Army and stationed in Frankfurt, Germany.
After completing his service, he returned to work at Larkin & Scott Funeral Home, where he worked in embalming for twenty-nine years. Concurrently, he served as the Produce Manager at Winn Dixie, later renamed Market Place, for the same length of time. Frank became a deacon in 1985 under the leadership of Pastor E.C. Clemons. Five years later, he took up responsibilities in the finance room, a role he held until his death.
Frank was preceded in death by his parents, Frank & Martha Harris, his sister Paralee Harris, and his two sons Frank Harris, III, and Kevin Shawn Smith. He was also preceded in death by his childhood friend, Fred Armstead, Sr.
Frank passed away on May 22, 2023. Survivors include his devoted daughter, Ida Harris Coats (Jacob) of Demopolis, AL, and his two sons: Kerry Warren Smith (Michelle) of Tracy, CA, and Dr. Cedric Harris (Wanda) of McCalla, AL.
His seven grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren also survive him. Additional survivors include his niece, Marie H. Posmituck (Gary) of Selma, AL, two great-nephews, cousins, godchildren, a god-brother, and nine devoted friends: George Williams, Sr., Landora Bullock, Willie Dorsey, Lester & Deborah Mitchell, Mollie Rowe, Ann Mack, Harold Scott, and Delois Cunningham. He is also survived by a host of other relatives and friends.
Funeral services were held on Friday, June 2, 2023, at 11:00 AM at the New Morning Star Baptist Church. The service was officiated by Pastor Albert Murdock, with Vera Congress acting as the Mistress of Order.Washington and Paige Mortuary directed.
