Paul T “Baldy” Harris, 94, passed away on Friday, October 19, 2018.

Mr. Harris was a lifelong resident of Roanoke Rapids and was the oldest and last survivor of the five children born to Paul and Flossie Harris.

“Baldy,” as most people knew him, was an avid hunter, fisherman and sports fan.

He was the owner of Harris Joyner Sporting Goods and a Sales Rep for Duxbak Clothing Company.  

He played football, basketball and baseball at Roanoke Rapids High School. He also played baseball for Wake Forest College.

His first job after college was as a teacher/coach and he later became the director of the Roanoke Rapids Recreation Department.

During that time, he helped found the Roanoke Valley Rescue Squad.  He also founded Big J Hunt Club.

He was a decorated Veteran of WWII, having served as a paratrooper, and in recent years was awarded the Legion of Honor medal by the French government.

Baldy is survived by his wife of 67 years, Ruth “Rookie” Harris, son Mark Harris of Roanoke Rapids, daughter Kay H. Lee (Richard) of Winston Salem, granddaughters Jamie Harris and Kennedy Harris, grandson David Lee (Ashleigh) and great granddaughter, Nova Lee, as well as eleven nieces and nephews and many great and great great nieces and nephews.

A celebration of his life will be held at 11:00 AM on Wednesday, October 24th at Rosemary Baptist Church. The family will greet guests afterward at the church.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to Rosemary Baptist Church, the Gary Sinise Foundation to assist service members, first responders, veterans and their families at PO Box 368, Woodland Hills, CA 91365 or Victory Junction at 4500 Adam’s Way, Randleman, NC 27317.

Online condolences may be left at wrennclarkehagan.com.