John Rufus Harris Jr.

John Rufus Harris, Jr., 89, of Forest, passed away on Sunday, February 12, 2023 at Lynchburg General Hospital. Born on June 14, 1933 in Lynchburg, he was the son of the late John R. Harris, Sr. and Katherine W. (Big Mama) Harris. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 56 years, Betty Bowen Harris. Prior to his retirement, he was a Master Machinist for GE then he opened and operated Harris Garage. He was a member of Timberlake Baptist Church. He is survived by two sons, Kenneth W. Harris and his wife Wanda or Rustburg; David R. Harris and his wife Katherine of Spout Spring; three grandchildren, Kenya Harris Worsham and her husband Mark of Louisa, Timothy J. Harris and his wife Ann of Spout Spring, Ashley Harris Spencer and husband Justin of Lynchburg; eight great grandchildren, Jeremiah Harris, Ethan Harris, Kaleb Harris, Lane Harris, Addison Spencer, Phoenix Worsham, Zane Worsham and numerous nieces and nephews. A funeral service celebrating his life will be conducted on Monday, February 20, 2023 at 11:00 a.m. at Timberlake Baptist Church with Pastor James Alley officiating. Interment will follow at Virginia Memorial Park. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service at the church. Those wishing to make memorial contributions are asked to consider Timberlake Baptist Church, 21395 Timberlake Road, Lynchburg, VA 24502.