Kevin Lee Harris

Kevin Lee Harris, fondly called ‘Kev’ was born on October 30,1955, in New Rochelle, New York, to Leon and Elaine Harris. On Saturday December 30, 2023, God suddenly called Kevin to eternal rest at Atrium Health-Carolinas Medical Center in Charlotte, North Carolina. It was a morning that started with a loving embrace like all others that he happily shared with his adoring wife Jackie.

At an early age, Kevin's family moved to The Jersey Shore, setting roots in the eclectic suburb of Neptune. Kevin’s illuminating presence was obvious while growing up in Neptune Village. Many knew Kev was definitely blessed with the three H’s (handsome, height, and humor). Kevin developed long lasting friendships riding bikes, refining his skills at basketball, and later gathering with his brother and the fellas around an automobile he recently detailed in and around the courtyards. These surroundings set the tone for his life and established the true meaning of family, community, and kindness.

Kevin was educated in the Neptune Township School District and graduated from Neptune High School. Upon graduation Kevin worked for Neptune Tools under the guidance and teaching of his beloved Godfather, Guy Napolitano. Kevin then moved on to Bell Laboratories / Lucent Technologies in Holmdel, New Jersey and loved his career as a Machinist-Tool Die Maker. He was also the Union Representative for The Communication Workers of America Union, Local 1062 and a member of the corporate basketball team, winning numerous championship games, of which he was very proud.

Predestined by the divine Kevin met the love of his life Jackie. They were married and enjoyed 30 plus years of marital bliss. Their union could only be described as a connection mere mortals can only dream and imagine. Kevin was a devoted husband, nurturing father, and doting grandfather. Taking pride in being an emotional support, provider, always available, and a constant in the lives of his family was paramount.

Kevin retired from Lucent Technologies after 25 years, and then began a career with the Asbury Park School District as a Security Officer. Kevin moved his family to Charlotte, North Carolina and joined the Charlotte Mecklenburg School System as a Resource Officer working at South Mecklenburg High School, West Mecklenburg High School, Harding High School, and Ardrey Kell High School. He retired from the school system in 2016. Kevin “Mr. Harris” left a lasting positive impact on the students he generously shared his advice, mentorship, and time with.

To know Kevin was to know that he was the epitome of genuine goodness. He made you feel better just by being in his presence. His laugh was belly deep that bounced off walls filling a room. Kevin was overwhelmingly loved and respected by all who had the privilege to walk along his path. Kevin was a self-made renaissance man who had a passion since his youth for cars and trucks. He delighted in creating unique detailing and customization of his vehicles. Kevin was also a gifted musician whose talents consisted of keyboard, percussion, and string instruments. He loved listening to music spanning all genres including: Country, Gospel, Hip-Hop, Jazz, Latin, Pop, R&B, and Soul.

After retiring from Charlotte Mecklenburg Schools, Kevin spent his days loving his family, creating memories, delving into his passions for cars, basketball, and music. He also was the "Number 1 Fan" of his first grandson, Juan, as he "did his thing" on the football field in New Jersey. "POP was very proud!” Later the joy of his days were spent caring for and guiding his youngest grandson, Kaine.

Kevin was predeceased by his parents, his beloved grandfather, Harold Haynes Sr. and his cousin, Russell Harris. Kevin leaves to cherish his memory, his love and wife, Jacqueline Gentry Harris, his daughter Candice Harris (Juan), his sons Kevin T. Harris (Rachael), and Blair A. Harris (Tabitha) Charlotte, NC. Two grandsons, Juan, Howell, NJ, Kaine, Charlotte, NC. One brother, Darrell Harris (Dawn) Ft. Meyers, FL. His beloved Aunt Wilda Haynes, Ft. Meyers, FL. His uncle, Harold Haynes, Jr. (Jeane), Detroit, MI. His uncle Troy Haynes (Anna) Long Branch, NJ. His sister-in-law, Caryl Harris, La Crosse, VA. His sister-in-law, Stephanie Russell-Counts, Charlotte, NC. His sister-in-law, Wanda Russell-Gordon (Michael), Huntersville, NC. His brother-in-law Alexander Gentry, Trenton, NJ. His brother-in-law, Henry Gentry Jr., (Julia), Gastonia, NC., and a host of cousins, nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends.

A Celebration of Life will be held Saturday, January 20, 2024 at 10:30 am at McEwen Funeral Service, 10500 Park Road, Charlotte, NC 28210.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the Kevin L. Harris Education Legacy Fund

Donations can be made via PayPal, PayPal.me/KLHEducationLegacy.

REPAST

Family and Friends are invited to convene following the memorial service at the Hilton Garden Inn

425 Towne Center Blvd., Pineville, North Carolina 28134 from 1pm - 4pm.

Hotel Accommodation can be made at

Hilton Garden Inn “Harris Family Block” Code 908

425 Towne Center Blvd, Pineville, NC 28134

704-889-3279