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William Maynard Harris, loved training horses

August 28, 2018

William M. Harris, 86, of Lewes was called to his eternal rest Friday, Aug. 24, 2018.

William was the son of the late Isaac P. Harris and Helen Harris.  William was born Oct. 18, 1931, in Felton. He was affectionately known as Pop-Pop, Big Bill, and Shot Caller. He received his early education at Booker T. Washington School in Dover, leaving in the 9th grade to help raise his younger brothers at home.

William worked on a various number of jobs, and retired from the Cape Henlopen School District after 20 years. His favorite job was working on the horse track, training as well as transporting horses up and down the East Coast.

William was joined in holy matrimony to the late Betty Harris June 12, 1965, sharing 45 years together. From this union they raised five children.

William was a longtime member of Christ's Church in Harbeson, where he served as chairman of the board, deacon, trustee, a member of the Senior Choir, Male Choir and The Jones Gospel Singers. He was also a member of the famous Harris and Hawkins singers, later renamed the renowned Harris Brothers. He enjoyed fishing and gardening, and family occasions. 

William was preceded in death by his wife; three sons, Aubrey, Wm. (Billy) and Keith; and three brothers, Lester, Reynolds and Henry.

He leaves to cherish his memory two daughters, Sonia Johnson of Lewes and Cheryl (Clifton) Holland of Millsboro; three daughters-in-law, Barbara Hall, Sherry Powell and Cynthia Harris; four brothers, Charles Harris, Kenneth (Margaret) Harris, Nelson (Eva) Harris and Paul Harris; two sisters-in-law, Marian Harris and Agnes Harris; 14 grandchildren; 19 great-grandchildren; and his Christ's Church family; great-granddaughter Tanaj Phillips, who was very dear to his heart; very special friends Mr. Sammy Young and Miss Barbara Boggs, and Cora Washington; a daughter in Christ, Brenda Anthony; neighbor Bruce Maicheles; and cousin/sister Delema Carter; many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

A Celebration of Life Service will be held Saturday, Sept. 1, at noon. Family and friends may visit two hours prior to service at Christ’s Church, 20583 Beaver Dam Road, Harbeson. To offer words of comfort, or sign the guest book, visit www.benniesmithfuneralhome.com.  Professional service entrusted to Bennie Smith Funeral Home, Millsboro.

 

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