Deacon Sidney Harris Jr.

Brother Sidney Harris, Jr., affectionately known to many as "Sunny," transitioned from this life after an extended illness, surrounded by friends and loved ones, on December 14, 2025. He was born on April 4, 1942, in Birmingham, Alabama, to the late Sidney Harris, Sr. and Annie W. Harris.

Brother Harris was the third of ten children and was raised in East Birmingham, where he attended Alberta Shields Elementary School. He later graduated from A.H. Parker High School, where he met and married Delores Jean Small. From this union, three children were born: Larshel, Cyril, and Yolanda.

Answering the call to serve his country, Brother Harris enlisted in the United States Army and served honorably from 1967 to 1969, during which time he was stationed in Germany. Upon his honorable discharge, he continued his education at Lawson State Community College and later graduated from Miles College. While at Miles College, he met and married the late Toni J. Harris. From this union, Sidney Lauren and Monica were born. Sunny and Toni shared 27 years of devoted marriage until she ultimately lost her courageous battle with breast cancer.

Brother Harris was a dedicated and hardworking man whose commitment to excellence extended into every area of his life. He was employed by Hayes Pemco for over 40 years, where he worked as an aircraft mechanic and later advanced to a supervisory role. Through his strong work ethic, attention to detail, and natural leadership, he earned the respect of his colleagues and peers. He retired after decades of service, leaving behind a legacy of professionalism, integrity, and excellence.

A man of strong faith, Brother Harris accepted Christ at an early age and was baptized at Gaines Chapel A.M.E. Church under the leadership of the late Reverend Goodgain. He later became a member of Greater Shiloh Baptist Church, under the leadership of the late Reverend Allen Thomas, and was an active member of the male chorus. He then converted to the Seventh-day Adventist faith and served as a deacon for over 30 years at South Park Seventh-day Adventist Church in Birmingham, Alabama. During that time, he was appointed as head deacon, demonstrating humility, consistency, and unwavering dedication to God's work.

Brother Harris was known for his infectious smile, warm presence, and candor, which reflected his honesty and deep love for others. He believed strongly in discipline, respect,and doing hat was right, values he faithfully instilled in his family and shared with those around him. Though firm in his convictions, his heart was always inclined toward helping others, offering guidance, and encouraging growth. Ever willing to serve, he was generous with his time, wisdom, and counsel, often offering advice and support when needed.

Brother Harris was preceded in death by his parents, Sidney Harris, Sr. and Annie W. Harris; his beloved wife, Toni J. Harris; his brother, Harold Harris of Houston, TX; his sister, Mary E. Sanders of Birmingham, AL; his sister-in-law, Louise Harris; and his brother-in-law, Ray Goodwin.

He leaves to cherish his precious memories five children: Mr. Larshel Harris, Mr. Cyril Harris, Ms. Yolanda Harris of Detroit, MI; Mrs. Sidney (Joseph) May of Birmingham, AL and Monica Harris of Atlanta, GA.

He also leaves to cherish his legacy his beloved grandchildren: James Pruitt, Syrill Harris, Jackson May, and Lauren May.

He leaves to mourn and celebrate his life his loving siblings: Mrs. Rebecca Goodwin of Detroit, MI, Mr. Jonas Harris of Charlotte, NC, Mrs. Ernestine (Charles) Warren of Perris, CA, Ms. Annie Gwendolyn Harris of Vallejo, CA, Mr. Abdul Raheem of Chicago, IL, Mrs.Carolyn (Eddie) Render of Detroit, MI and Ms. Delphine Harris of Vallejo, CA.

He also leaves to cherish his memory his devoted brother-in-law, Charles Lindberg Sanders of Birmingham, AL, along with a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, dedicated church members, neighbors, special and cherished friends, and many others whose lives were touched by his presence.

Brother Sidney Harris, Jr. will be deeply missed, but his legacy of faith, hard work, discipline, service, and love will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.