Mr. Walter Harris

On February 2, 1939 Richard and Louise Rainey Harris were blessed with a handsome son, Walter Harris. He was reared in New Orleans, Louisiana and graduated from Booker T. Washington High School in 1957. Growing up, he was baptized at Little Zion Baptist Church, New Orleans.

Later in life, he joined Second African Baptist Church in Edgard, Louisiana under the leadership of Rev. Clarence Mollere Sr. where he was a member of the male chorus. Walter served there until his health moved him to Mesquite, Texas and he worshiped at the Good Shepherd Primitive Baptist Church under the leadership of Elder Charles Williams Sr.

Walter was a member of the U.S. Army for twenty years before retirement. Once retired from the military he became the first African American tire salesman for Sears and Roebuck in New Orleans, Louisiana and had numerous amounts of faithful customers. After retiring from Sears he followed in his father's footsteps as a landscape gardener. He also worked for a private family for many years.

Lovingly known to all as "Wal Tee" and "Sarge", he was always so kind and giving to all his family, friends and community. He never met a stranger. He lived life like his favorite song, "This little light of mine, I'm going to let it shine". And that he did!

Walter had that extra talent that he loved so dearly. He was a photographer/artist! He loved taking pictures, drawing on posters and presenting them to different people. He loved black history. He was a member of a performance group that would go from church to church performing during black history month. He would follow the Mardi Gras Indians photographing them in their beautiful costumes every Fat Tuesday.

Walter was an all-time fan of the Dallas Cowboys, but he spent his football seasons with family and friends who were all Saints fans! His relationships with close family and friends meant the world to him.

His memories will be cherished by his daughters Beverly Harris Johnson (Mesquite, TX), Lynette Harris (Mesquite, TX) and Lori Harris Jenkins (Stan), Stockbridge, GA; grandchildren Heidi Robinson (Charles), Kellyn Harris Sr. (Savannah), Whitnee & Mykayla Jackson and Khloe Jenkins; great grandchildren Haley, Aniyah, Chase, Chance, Kellyn Jr., Ryan, Rylie and Kehlani; sister Lula Harris Breaux (Charles); nephews Derek Breaux (Roxxana) and Peter Breaux; godchild Horatio Williams and all of his loving extended family members and friends.

Walter was preceded in death by his parents Richard Sr. and Louise Harris and his brother Richard Harris Jr.

Walter's life has been a blessing to our family and so many others! May he rest in peace and love. Your life has been well spent.