Obituary of William Hamilton Harris

Dr. William H. Harris, age 79, passed away on April 19, 2024.    

 

He was born on July 22, 1944, in Fitzgerald, Georgia, the son of the late Robert L. Harris, Sr. and Sallie Graham Harris.  He was the second of 6 siblings. 

 

He graduated from Paine College in 1966, and later received his Doctorate from Indiana University.  He had a distinguished career in academics including serving as President of Paine College, Texas Southern University, Alabama State University, Fort Valley State University, and Texas College. 

 

He is survived by his wife of 57 years, Wanda F. Harris; children Cynthia M. Harris and William J. Harris, Sr. (Ginia); grandchildren William J. Harris, Jr. and Kennedy Alexis Yvonne Harris; and siblings Gladys Ann Gary, Mary Faye Reese, and Clarence Harris along with numerous nieces and nephews, other family and friends.  He was preceded in death by his brothers, Robert L. Harris, Jr. and James Larry Harris.   

 

In lieu of flowers, please send donations to Paine College in his honor and memory.