Aubrey O'Neal Harris Sr.

Aubrey (“Boo Boo”) O’Neal Harris entered our world on March 22, 1951. At an early age, Aubrey gave his life to Christ and became a devoted member of Antioch Baptist Church. He remained a member until his passing. Aubrey loved praising the lord through song. During his tenure at Antioch, he was a member of the Antioch Male Chorus and Gospel Choir. His bold, tenor voice often captivated the attention of all in attendance. His favorite songs to sing upon request were “Great Is Thy Faithfulness” and “Oh Holy Night”. In addition to singing, Aubrey enjoyed dancing with the Male Liturgical Dancers and performing throughout the Richmond tri-city area in the theatrical production of “God’s Trombone.” During his early years, he also served as Sunday School Superintendent. Aubrey was educated in the Henrico County Public School System, and was graduated from Varina High School in June 1969. Thereafter, he was employed with Philip Morris, Inc. for a number of years. He later gained employment as a Corrections Officer with the Virginia State Penitentiary and the Department of Corrections. In the mid 80’s, Aubrey joined the staff of the Richmond Sheriff Department and served as Deputy Sheriff for 12 years prior to his retirement from the Virginia Department of General Services in 2013. During his retirement, Aubrey drove the school bus for Henrico County Public Schools until his recent illness. While a patient at St. Mary’s Hospital in Richmond, Virginia, Aubrey’s spirit passed quietly, returning to its Creator on December 10, 2016. Aubrey was preceded in death by his mother, Lavonia P. Harris; father, Nathaniel Harris; brothers, Warren Clayton, and Curtis Clayton. Fondly missing and cherishing his memory are his wife of 37 years, Edith N. Harris; sons, Aubrey Harris Jr., Christopher Harris, Davion Harris, and Master Sergeant Gerald Napper; daughter, Rhonda Harris; granddaughter, Zharia Napper, brother, Herman Harris (Linda), and sister, Zenora Harris; sister-in-laws, Barbara Cain and Rosaline Clayton, brother-in-laws, Colonel William Napper, United States Army, Retired (Sandra), Eddie Napper (Patrica), and Gunnery Sergeant Ernest Napper (Ret.); three aunts, Mayola Hargroves (Samuel), Clarice Wright (Fred), and Margaret Corbin; and one uncle, Roger Pleasants (Juanita). Aubrey spent the better part of his life in the service of others. He lived a full life, filled with love and the joy of being a devoted husband, son, brother, father, grandfather, uncle and most of all, a good neighbor and friend. Aubrey was an integral part of the Antioch Baptist Church family for more than 50 years. His presence will be greatly missed.

Tributes

Aubrey O'Neal Harris Sr.

March 22, 1951 - December 10, 2016