Mary Maggaline Harris

Mary Maggaline Harris entered this world on May 3, 1949, in Richmond, VA. She was the daughter of Lillie Mae Williams and Johnny Claude Harris Sr. Graduating from Maggie Walker High school she was small in stature but a giant amongst women, and soon brought her people skills, intelligence, problem-solving skills, and wisdom to Virginia’s Department of Transportation. She worked there for 30+ years; starting as an individual contributor, then progressing to the level of management as a department Supervisor. In her 33rd year, she bore a son, Caleb M. Harris, and began the tireless dedication of her life to successfully raising him into to a man. Upon retiring she received various accolades and awards but more importantly, she earned the respect and love of her peers and team. An avid lover of music and singing, Mary’s home was filled with all genres of album covers. Sounds of trumpets, horn, drum, and saxophone echoed off the walls of her home; R&B, Soul, Gospel, Jazz, and Rock genres resonated in her head; while vibrations of her own vocal chords delighted others often as she sung in a local choir. Vinyl spun on circling platters gave way to turning cassettes, followed by spinning CDs but the love for the craft and artistry never waned in her. She fostered this appreciation of harmony to the tune of love in her son, who to this day is a lover of all music just like her. Among her many contributions to her friends and family was a most important simple act; the act of caring. She loved deeply and helped others at the first ask and without hesitation. Providing a home for family and friends when in need was not uncommon for her. Her friends spoke highly of her consistently, resulting in more sisters and brothers than she biologically had. Toward the end of her own mother’s life, she too cared, provided for, and nursed her as well. Mary M. Harris had her own homecoming on January 14, 2023, at the age of 73. Surrounded by family, she passed on from our realm of existence into one absent of the worries of this world. Tears of joy of a fulfilled life softly traced her cheek before she left to the melody of her favorite songs. She is survived by one son Caleb M. Harris; two brothers, Albert Williams Jr. and Ronnie Williams; one sister, Hazel Young; and a host of nieces, nephews, and countless friends. Waiting to welcome her in her forever home is her sister, Bernadette Williams; three brothers, Emanuel Williams, Henry Lee Harris, and Johnny Claude Harris Jr; as well her previously mentioned mother and father. When you hear your favorite song that spans decades of time, take solace in the fact that it was probably a favorite of hers too. If you listen closely enough, you’ll likely hear her singing and see her dancing to it right along with you forever.

Tributes

Mary Maggaline Harris

May 3, 1949 - January 14, 2023