Smith (Smitty) Harris was born on May 20, 1930 in Marianna, Arkansas, to Willie T. Harris Sr and Marie Douglas Harris. Smitty accepted Christ at an early age under Pastor C.L. Gaines, where he was a faithful member and participated in several organizations within the church. Smitty graduated from Moton High school in 1950, where he played football and sang in the Glee Club.

After graduation, Smitty united in matrimony with Olivure Stevens and they moved to Decatur, Illinois. To this union four children were born: Smithea, Rick, Steaven, and Mechelle. Seeking a career in the military, that same year, Smitty joined the Army where he served for three years.

Once he completed his service in the Korean War, Smitty returned to Decatur, Illinois, where he began employment at C.B.Q Co. His career took an upward turn when he became a union leader while employed through Wagner Castings Company. He served faithfully in this capacity for forty-one years which was a significant feat as he was recognized as the first African American union leader. To become proficient as an International Representative of the United Paper workers International Union, he studied Labor Law at the University of Illinois in Champaign, Urbana and at the University of Wisconsin. His unselfish Union Career helped to secure the jobs of thousands of men and women. Whether serving in the church or performing duties at work, Smitty’s motto was to serve and help as many people as possible.

Serving the Lord was always a focal point in Smith Harris’ life. For many years, he attended New Salem Baptist Church, where he served in various auxiliaries.

In I983, Smitty married Maxine Kirkwood, and the two subsequently relocated to Arlington, TX, where he was blessed to live a full and prosperous life. They joined Mount Olive Baptist Church where he served as a Deacon, an Usher, and a Chef in the Culinary Ministry.

Upon retiring, Smitty, enjoyed a life of leisure. He became an avid fisherman, played his saxophone, and was passionate about working in his yard. Neighbors often commented on the beautiful floral arrangements which he and Mrs. Harris planted yearly. When not working in the yard, Smitty traveled frequently. He has visited several cities in the US, Germany, Italy, Switzerland, England, and France.

Smitty was a devoted Husband, Father, Grandfather, Great-Grandfather, and Great Great-Grandfather. The Grands affectionately called him Grumpy or Grandpa.

Smitty’s love still remains with his wife, Maxine Harris, his children, Smithea Vogelsang, Rick (Cheryl) Harris, Dr. Steaven C. (Alvis) Harris, Mechelle (James) Davies, Otis (Markeita) Kirkwood, James (Rosalyn) Kirkwood, Janette Bates, Sam Kirkwood, and Stephen (Julie) Kirkwood, and a host of grandchildren, great-grandchildren, great great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and extended family members. He understood (and taught) that family grows beyond bloodlines. Smith Harris was an inspiration to all that he met and will be greatly missed. Let us remember the good times, his voice, his wisdom, the conversations, and the gatherings.