Chesapeake, VA  –  Carol E. Harris was born on February 27, 1941, to Floyd “Dot” Ward and Lillian Smith Brown in Portsmouth, VA.

We remember the beautiful life of a beloved woman who peacefully fell asleep in death on March 8, 2026, at her home, surrounded by family and love. Carol was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and friend. She was a spirited and joyful soul, and a woman of deep faith. Carol carried a strong love for her God, Jehovah, and the Bible. Throughout her life, she drew strength, comfort, and wisdom from her faith each day.

Carol was educated in the Portsmouth and Chesapeake school systems. While attending I.C. Norcom and Crestwood High Schools, Carol excelled academically and enjoyed playing tennis, becoming one of the stars of the Tennis Team. She was a hardworking woman, managing positions at the General Electric Company and Verbatim.

Once Carol realized that she could have a better life by getting to know God and His requirements, she began researching the scriptures with one of Jehovah’s Witnesses. This study led her to dedicate herself to doing God’s will and getting baptized. She was baptized as one of Jehovah’s Witnesses September 1969.

Carol married the love of her life, Jemmott “Randy” Harris, in December of 1969, whom she affectionately called “Mott.” They were married for 56 years and raised three beautiful children: Ellen, Clarissa, and John. Family was one of Carol’s greatest joys. She especially loved talking about her husband, children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She adored her grandchildren: Curtisha, Melvin, Aja, Isiah, Nailah, Nigel, and Nyles. And she doted on her great-grandchildren: Machiah, Eian, and Kendell. She loved regaling everyone with stories of her grandchildren and great-grandchildren and all of their different accomplishments. Her conversations were also often filled with stories of her beloved husband and how they met. Their love story was one she carried proudly, sharing it often with a smile that showed just how much he meant to her.

Carol loved her ministry as a full-time Pioneer, sharing the Kingdom message from door to door, conducting many Bible studies, and aiding many to baptism. She took great pride and joy in teaching others about the blessings of Jehovah’s Kingdom through Jesus Christ. Even during her recent hospitalization, she was placing Bible literature with the staff. Carol’s presence filled a room the moment she entered it. She had a special appreciation for beauty and creativity and was known for her love of fashion, especially a beautiful pair of high heels and accessories. Her home reflected her talent for home décor, creating warm and welcoming spaces where family and friends always felt comfortable and loved. Beyond her fashionable appearance was a heart deeply devoted to God. She cherished the Bible and found joy in spiritual conversations, offering encouragement in both good times and hard ones. Carol was always eager to share her love for Jehovah and her belief in His promises with others.

More than anything, Carol will be remembered for her strong faith in Jehovah God, her loving heart, generous spirit, infectious laugh, her vibrant feisty personality, and her love for dancing and bringing warmth to any gathering. She loved to dance, filling rooms with laughter and energy whenever music played, especially “The Electric Slide.” In the kitchen, she was known for making delicious meals, a mean potato salad, and pound cake.

Carol will be missed dearly and is survived by her loving and devoted husband, Jemmott “Randy” Harris, children: Ellen, Clarissa and John; grandchildren: Aja, Curtisha, Melvin, Isiah, Nailah, Nigel, and Nyles; great-grandchildren: Machiah, Eian, Kendell. And a multitude of nieces, nephews, and cousins, Brother Leigh Ward. Sisters: Lillian Smith Ward, Cheryl Joe Artis, Cheryle Johnson (James), Sharon Harris Boykin (David), and Denise Collier Harris; and Special Cousins: James L. Johnson, Jr. (Cheryl) and Vanessa Lewis. Brother-In-Laws: Henry Harris (Mary), Maurice Harris, and Roderick Harris. Special Nieces, Nephews, and Friends: Carleathia (Maluche) Vincent, Marcus Ward, Amos Williams, Arielle Arroyo, and Sharonda Williams.

Carol was preceded in death by her parents, sisters: Mary C. Reed and Martha Ward Bell, Brothers Frederick “Butch” Ward and Scott “Scottie” Smith, and Great-granddaughter Dasyah Tamia White.

Service

Saturday, March 28, 2026, 1:00pm

Kingdom Hall Of Jehovah’s Witnesses

4050 Elliott Avenue

Portsmouth, VA 23701

Cremation Society of Virginia, Chesapeake Office, is assisting the family during their time of need.  Friends and family may share online condolences and memories at www.vacremationsociety.com.

Acknowledgments and Special Thanks

The Harris family is grateful for the profound acts of love and kindness extended to us.  We offer you our most humble and heartfelt appreciation during our time of bereavement.