Edward Raymond “Ed” Harris Jr. | Eastern North Carolina Now

    Mr. Edward Raymond "Ed" Harris, Jr., age 79, a resident of Chocowinity, NC died Friday January 24, 2025.

    A memorial service will be held at 10:00 a.m. Saturday February 8, 2025 at First Free Will Baptist Church in Washington officiated by Pastor Darren Walker. The family will receive friends following the service in the church family life center.

    Edward was born in Worcester County, Massachusetts, son of the late Edward Raymond Harris, Sr. and the late Louise Veatless King Harris. He was a graduate of Northbridge High School in Whitinsville, MA and received his bachelor's degree from Eastern Nazarene College in Quincy MA and his master's degree from George Washington University in Washington, DC. On December 2, 1967, he married Carol Lynn Hunsberger. He started his career in public education teaching and advanced to superintendent of schools. As an educator he developed a reputation for high student achievement and excellent discipline which instilled respect for him from his students. After retirement, he continued supporting education by volunteering at Chocowinity Middle and John Cotten Tayloe Schools. His involvement in the development of the students extended beyond their education in the classroom to sports. He loved coaching youth softball and basketball and led multiple teams to state basketball championships games. Personally, he played collegiate baseball and basketball while attending ENC. He also played in the NC Senior Games and won the basketball state championships for his age group in 2014. Edward also loved refinishing furniture and playing golf. His teaching background made him an excellent Sunday school teacher. He, along with his wife, attended First Free Will Baptist Church.

    Surviving with his wife are his children: Stephanie Harris of Oklahoma City, OK, Bradley Harris (Jolene) of Columbus, OH, and Janna Harris (Mark Ploessl) of Hummelstown, PA; brother Wayne Harris (Debra) of Port Orange, FL; grandchildren Blair, Luke, Ethan, Jacob, Cora, Natalie, Hank, Logan, and Audrey, and great grandchildren Theodore, and Jaxon.

    In lieu of flowers the family kindly asks that memorial contributions be made to First Free Will Baptist Church, 901 North Bonner Street, Washington, NC 27889 or to the charity of one's choice.

    Online condolences may be offered to the family by visiting www.paulfuneralhome.com

    Paul Funeral Home & Crematory of Washington is honored to serve the Harris family.