Reverend Willie Harris, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, minister, and beloved community servant, was born on September 19, 1949, in New Orleans, Louisiana to the late Alice Brumfield. He was lovingly adopted and raised by Lonia Brumfield and Luther Harris, who nurtured his faith and instilled in him a foundation of love, discipline, and service.

From an early age, Willie's love for the Lord was nurtured by both of his adopted parents. His mother faithfully brought him to Bethlehem Baptist Church in Bogalusa, LA, where he sang in various choirs as a child. His father also made a lasting impression on his faith journey by taking him to African Methodist Episcopal Church. These early church experiences helped shape his devotion and passion for worship that would later define his life and ministry.

Gifted with a rich baritone voice, Willie would go on to bless many through worship for decades to come. He graduated from Central Memorial High School in 1968, where he was a choir member and played football. Fondly nicknamed "Wheadtoowee" by his brothers William R Brumfield and Michael Brumfield, the name followed him from high school into adulthood among classmates and family alike.

Willie continued his education at Southern University in Baton Rouge, LA, where he was a proud member of the ROTC. He later obtained a business certificate in 2007 and launched "Jack of All Trades Handyman Services," reflecting his wide range of skills in carpentry, painting, paper mill work, scale and shipyard operations, and security. He also trained in carpentry through VOT. From a young age, he worked alongside his uncles learning to build houses—a trade he mastered with passion and dedication.

 

He gave his life to Christ at a young age, and his commitment only deepened over time. He received his Certificate of License to preach on September 6, 2003, and was ordained on October 9, 2005, under the late Dr. Rev. Bethenia Rouse at Christian Faith Church in Schenectady, New York. He was later licensed as an Elder on November 7, 2021, under Prophet Woody and Peggy Martin at Victory Temple Church in Lenoir City, Tennessee.

 

On September 14, 1997, he married the love of his life, LaTanya Michelle Moses Harris, in Bogalusa, Louisiana. Together, they co-pastored New Beginnings Prayer, Praise, & Worship Ministries for seven years, led worship, conducted community outreach, and performed in gospel duets across churches and local events. Willie was a steadfast support to his wife, assisting in various ministries and transporting their singing daughters, "The Triple A Sisters," as they ministered in music.

His ministry extended across several churches and states: from St. James Presbyterian Church and Soul Saving Station in Saratoga Springs, New York, to Allen Temple COGIC in Bogalusa, Louisiana, and various ministries in Tennessee. He served tirelessly in children's ministry-teaching, worshiping, transporting, and nurturing young hearts with biblical principles.

Music was a lifelong devotion. He recorded vocals in 2001, which aired on local New York broadcasts, including Jesscott Ministries Radio. He also appeared on television broadcasts, using his voice to glorify God and touch souls.

A highlight of his high school years was performing in Central Memorial High School's annual "Big Broadcast," a renowned variety show that showcased his love for music and school spirit. Central Memorial, known for its excellence in music, drama, and athletics, provided the perfect stage for Willie's early growth as a singer and leader.

Reverend Harris is preceded in death by his mother Alice Brumfield; adopted parents Lonia Brumfield Harris and Luther Harris; siblings Michael Brumfield and Lonia "Wavine" Brown; uncles Dewitt Brumfield (Bogalusa, LA), Jessie K. (Miami, FL), and Slim and Willie Brumfield (New Orleans, LA); and cousins MaryNell May and Hazel Brumfield Richardson.

He is survived by his loving daughters: Tuwanda Harris Williams, Aundrea (Tyrone) Johnson, Melissa (Michael) Williams, and Arkea (Michael Deon) Victor. He is also remembered by his twelve grandchildren: Sterling Williams, Dariouna (Brkari) Roberts, Darian Williams, Astaria, Azarias, Azrael, Azelia, Aliyah, Ezekiel, Dior, Unborn, and a host of great-grandchildren.

He leaves behind his brother, William R. (Valerie) Brumfield; sister, Linda Williams; nephews Seorge and Ernest Williams, Jimmy Jackson, and Antoine Brumfield; nieces, Cynthi Stevenson, Jackie Jackson, and Jessina Jackson Johnson; cousins, Leatrice Brumfield, Janet 3rumfield, and Prince Brumfield; and a multitude of extended family, church members, anc friends who cherished him.

Even in his final days, Reverend Harris remained steadfast in prayer, unshakable in faith, and devoted to spreading the Gospel. He was a provider, a protector, a loving father, and a man whose legacy is rooted in compassion, service, worship, and unwavering faith.

"Well done, good and faithful servant... Enter into the joy of your Lord." - Matthew 25:23