Delfus Harris, Jr.

The Celebration of Life Service for Mr. Harris will be live streamed on the Facebook Page of Fisher Memorial Funeral Parlor.

FACE MASKS ARE STRONGLY URGED!!!

Delfus Harris Jr, was born in Durham, NC on November 1, 1939, and departed from this earthly life on Thursday, February 26, 2026 while residing in Camden, NC. He was the oldest of ten children born to Delphus Harris Sr. & Mary Magdalene Williams Harris.  

In his early childhood, the growing family migrated to Philadelphia.  There, he attended Martha Washington Elementary School and spent time with friends, exploring the sights and people of the neighborhood.  From early on, he demonstrated an interest and skill with building and frequently worked on model cars and airplanes.

Delfus returned to North Carolina where he reconnected with his maternal family attending high school in Lillington NC, under the loving care and guidance of Winnie H. Jones, his maternal grandmother. His experiences in the natural environment influenced his life journey.

After attending high school Delfus followed his passion for aeronautics by enlisting in the US Air Force.  Upon completing his obligations, he obtained employment with Lockheed working with the 101st Airborne Army Division, and 725th Maintenance BN during the Vietnam War.  He enlisted in the US Army serving time in Vietnam where he developed relationships that impacted the rest of his life.

Upon completion of his service, he continued to explore his mechanical mind through education and employment. He worked as an electrician at General Electric, Boeing, Keebler and later retired from Philadelphia Gas Works.  Electrical work was his passion which he did for many years including assisting families in need.

Delfus loved his family and had the biggest heart.  He is remembered as a father to many as he always taught and encouraged wellness of mind, body and spirit.  His love for nature and living a natural lifestyle impacted who he dealt with and how he chose to live. Delfus was very strong-willed, a trait that defined him.  His strength of will and his faith in God undoubtedly helped him endure the health challenges he faced with his prostate cancer. His love for nature and the basics of life prompted his move back to North Carolina where he was able to enjoy his final years in a natural, rural and peaceful surrounding. Although we will miss him tremendously, we find peace in knowing he is no longer in pain.

He is survived by his devoted wife, Houng Nguyen, beloved children, Odelphus Harris of Philadelphia, PA, Odilean (Tommy) Smith of Durham, NC, Christopher Harris of Whiteville, NC and Rhonda Leake of Richmond, VA, granddaughters, Taylor & Thalia Smith, grandson, Will Robinson, sisters, Sylvia Holman of Dover, DE, Gusta Lee of Pembroke Pines, FL and Sarah Sexton of Philadelphia, PA, two brothers Robert Harris of Austin, TX and Joseph Harris, and a host of cousins, nieces, nephews and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents Delphus and Mary Harris, three brothers James Harris, Leroy Harris and Samuel Harris and sister Mary Ann Askew.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Delfus Harris, Jr.'s memory to a Vietnam Veteran's organization of your choice.

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