Kenneth George Harris Obituary May 15, 2026 | Raleigh, NC
Kenneth George Harris, 77, of Raleigh, North Carolina, passed away peacefully on Friday, May 15, 2026.
Kenneth George Harris, a devoted husband, proud father, grandfather, and respected community member, left this world surrounded by his loving family. Known for his strong integrity, quick wit, and generous spirit, Kenneth lived a life defined by hard work, faith, and deep commitment to those he loved. He will be remembered as a steady presence, a man of his word, and a source of quiet strength for his family and friends.
A Life Well Lived
Kenneth George Harris was born on October 28, 1948, in Raleigh, North Carolina. He grew up in a working-class family that taught him the values of honesty, perseverance, and responsibility. After graduating from Broughton High School in 1966, Kenneth proudly served in the United States Navy from 1967 to 1971. His years of service shaped his character and instilled in him a lifelong sense of duty and patriotism.
Upon returning to Raleigh, Kenneth built a successful career in the electrical engineering and construction industry. For more than 40 years, he worked with dedication, eventually becoming a senior project manager for several major commercial developments across North Carolina. Colleagues described him as a reliable leader who mentored many young professionals and always emphasized quality workmanship and doing things the right way. He retired in 2014 but remained active in local trade associations and enjoyed offering advice to friends and family on home improvement projects.
Kenneth was a longtime active member of St. Mark’s United Methodist Church, where he served on the building committee and volunteered with the men’s ministry. He enjoyed golfing, fishing at Jordan Lake, restoring vintage cars in his garage, and cheering for the North Carolina State Wolfpack. Family cookouts, holiday traditions, and weekend fishing trips were among his greatest joys.
Surviving Family Members
Kenneth is survived by his loving wife of 52 years, Patricia Ann (Reynolds) Harris of Raleigh; his children: son Michael (Jennifer) Harris of Durham, North Carolina, and daughter Elizabeth (Scott) Bennett of Cary, North Carolina; his cherished grandchildren: Tyler, Madison, and Brooke Harris, and Logan and Harper Bennett; and many dear siblings, nieces, nephews, cousins, and close friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents, George and Evelyn Harris, and his older brother, Robert Lee Harris.
Funeral Details and Arrangements
A Celebration of Life service for Kenneth George Harris will be held on Thursday, May 21, 2026, at 11:00 AM at St. Mark’s United Methodist Church in Raleigh, with Reverend Thomas Whitaker officiating. The family will receive friends on Wednesday, May 20, from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM at the Bryan-Lee Funeral Home.
Interment with military honors will follow at Raleigh Memorial Park. Pallbearers will include his son, son-in-law, and grandsons.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial contributions be made to the Wounded Warrior Project or to St. Mark’s United Methodist Church in Kenneth’s honor.
A Heartfelt Tribute
Kenneth George Harris lived a life of purpose, love, and quiet dignity. He was the foundation of his family — the one who worked hard, loved deeply, and showed up consistently for the people who mattered most. Whether teaching his children how to change a tire, sharing stories from his Navy days, or patiently helping a grandchild with a science project, Kenneth led by example and lived with integrity.
He taught his family the importance of keeping your word, working with your hands, and treating others with respect. His dry humor could brighten the darkest days, and his calm presence offered comfort during life’s storms. Kenneth cherished his marriage to Patricia, his faith, and the simple pleasures of life — a morning cup of coffee on the porch, time spent with grandchildren, and watching the sunset after a long day.
Though our hearts are heavy with grief, we take comfort knowing Kenneth has gone home to his eternal rest, reunited with loved ones who preceded him. His legacy of faith, family, and faithfulness will continue to guide and inspire his loved ones for years to come.
Condolences and Guestbook
The Harris family warmly invites relatives, friends, and colleagues to share memories, stories, and words of comfort in the guestbook below. These tributes will be deeply treasured as the family celebrates Kenneth’s life and navigates this time of loss.
