Thomas Harris

Thomas Benjamin Harris May 27, 1943 – April 23, 2025

Thomas Benjamin Harris, known to many as Tommy or Pap, passed away peacefully at his home on April 23, 2025 after a long and courageous battle with Parkinson’s Disease. He was 81 years old.

Born on May 27, 1943, to the late Thomas Marshall Harris and Lois Alderman Harris, Tom grew up in Columbus and was a 1961 graduate of SD Lee High School. He went on to attend Mississippi State University before starting his career in the circulation department at the Birmingham News and Huntsville Times. Later, Tom returned to Columbus, where he worked with his father-in-law at Newman Oil Company before taking on the role of business owner of Insulation Specialty.

A lifelong servant, Tom became a devoted Gideon before being called to pastor several churches, including Corinth Baptist Church in Vernon, AL, Cedar Bluff Baptist Church, Hope Baptist Church and Enon Baptist Church in West Point, MS. His ministry extended beyond the pulpit, as he was actively involved in numerous prison ministries, including a memorable mission trip to Rikers Island Prison in New York where he passed out Bibles. Tom also dedicated time to the Mississippi Sheriff’s Boys Ranch, where his caring nature and willingness to give back touched many lives.

Tom had a variety of interests that brought him joy. He enjoyed working on cars, farming, hunting, and fishing. He was especially fond of taking his grandchildren on road trips in the camper, creating memories that will last a lifetime. He also cherished his beloved dog, Sis, who was a faithful companion.

Known for his sharp wit and infectious sense of humor, Tom never met a stranger. His kindness, laughter, and unwavering faith will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Tom is preceded in death by his parents, Thomas Marshall and Lois Alderman Harris, his brother William (Billy) Harris, his son-in-law Mark Foster, and his grandson Benjamin Kurt Foster. He is survived by his loving wife of over 60 years, Linda Gail Newman Harris; daughters Pamela White (Tim) and Christy Adams (Daniel); grandchildren Shelby Grimes (Josh), Lauren Adams, and Landon Adams; and great-grandson Foster Ryan Grimes. Tom is also survived by his sister Dianne Different (Paul), his sister-in-law Karen Harris, as well as many cousins, nieces, and nephews.

A service to celebrate Tom’s life will be held at East End Baptist Church on Saturday, April 26. Visitation is from 1:00-3:00, service at 3:00 PM, followed by a graveside service at Egger Cemetery in Caledonia.

Pallbearers will be Daniel Adams, Landon Adams, Josh Grimes, Joe Hollowell, Trent Humber, and Tim White. Honorary pallbearers include Cleveland and Tina Lewis, Billy and Sue Goodman, C.F. Harris, Jr., Burlon Laird, and numerous other first cousins.

The family would like to extend special thanks to Dr. Cameron Huxford, Amy Williams, RN and the entire Legacy Hospice team for their loving care and support.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the East End Baptist Church building fund or to Gideons International, two causes important to Tom and his family.