IN LOVING MEMORY OF

Cleveland A.

Cleveland A. "Tommy" Harris Profile Photo

"Tommy" Harris

Nov 11, 1947 — Aug 17, 2025

Obituary

With profound love and a sense of cherished memories, we announce the peaceful transition of Cleveland Amos "Tommy" Harris, a man whose life was a testament to faith, family, and unwavering spirit. Tommy departed this earthly realm on Sunday, August 17, 2025, at the age of 77, while under the compassionate care of the Staff at Henrico Health and Rehabilitation Center in Henrico County. He was born on November 11, 1947.

Cleveland was preceded in death by his parents, Gussie and Jonnie Harris; along with his sisters, Edith Jefferson, Beatrice Exie Walker, Edna Branch, and Muriel Griffin; and his brothers, Eldridge, George, William, Joseph, Otis, and Charles Leroy Harris. Their memories, like his, will forever remain etched in the hearts of those who loved them.

Tommy dedicated over three decades of his life to the Federal Paper Company, where he honed his skills as a certified welder. His commitment and expertise were well regarded, earning him the respect of his colleagues until his retirement. Early on, Tommy was known as "Spark Plug" on the baseball field as a catcher. Later in life, he was affectionately known by many as "Radio," a moniker earned for his legendary and unstoppable trash-talking, which brought laughter and light to every gathering.

A man of deep faith, Tommy found solace and inspiration in the teachings of Christ. He joined Oak Grove Baptist Church at an early age, located in Chesterfield, Virginia, where he found community and spiritual nourishment. Beyond his faith, Tommy had a passion for sports, avidly following the Atlanta Braves during baseball season and passionately cheering for the Washington Commanders in the fall. Fishing was another pastime he enjoyed, though tales of "the big one that got away" were often intertwined with his signature playful banter. He also found immense joy in shaping young lives as a little league football coach, instilling in his players not only the fundamentals of the game, but also the values of teamwork, discipline, and sportsmanship.

His legacy of love and laughter will forever resonate in the hearts of his devoted wife of thirty-one years, Dorothy Harris; his daughter Connie Elam (Archie); and his three cherished bonus sons, Kevin, Theo (Patrice), and Marlow (Shae) Jiggetts. He is lovingly remembered by his four adored grandchildren: devoted grandson, Montrel Harris, ShaNiese (Ervin) Ransom, Jairon, and Pv2. Jailen Jiggetts. The joy he brought to their lives will also be carried on by his six great grandchildren: TraNiyah Baker, Armani Cammack, Montague Cammack, Jr., Latrel Harris, Cairo Harris, and Emiyah Ransom. Also holding his memory dear are his sisters-in-law, Bonnie White (Michael), Connie Jones, Mary Hargraves, and Bessie Harris; his brother-in-law, Billie Holmes (Gail); and a host of treasured nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

In his senior years, Mr. Harris found comfort and companionship at Henrico Health and Rehabilitation Center, where he was cared for with dignity and respect. His family extends their deepest gratitude to the dedicated staff, including Montague Cammack, Darlene Alston, Jasmine Powell, Jacqueline Richardson, and Guade Lupe Willis for their unwavering kindness and support. Alongside his family, Cleveland cherished the enduring bonds of friendship he shared with Willie Crew, Richard Williams, and Donald "Don" Lee. Their unwavering support enriched his life immeasurably, and their friendship will forever be a source of comfort and joy.

Services will be held at 1:00 P.M., Saturday, August 30, 2025, in the Chapel of J. M. Wilkerson Funeral Establishment, Inc., 102 South Avenue, Petersburg, VA, the Rev. Herbert Holly II, eulogist. The interment to follow at The Harris Family Cemetery.

J.M. Wilkerson Funeral Establishment, Inc., 102 South Avenue, Petersburg, VA, (804) 732-8911, watch the funeral services live online at www.jmwilkersonsince1874.com.

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Funeral Services

Viewing

August
29

Friday

J M WILKERSON FUNERAL ESTABLISHMENT, INC.

102 South Avenue, Petersburg, VA 23803-4220

9:00 am - 8:00 pm

Funeral Service

August
30

Saturday

The Chapel of J. M. Wilkerson Funeral Establishment, Inc.

102 South Avenue, Petersburg, VA 23803-4220

Starts at 1:00 pm

Interment

August
30

Saturday

The Harris Family Cemetery

Reedy Branch Road, VA 23838

Starts at 2:00 pm

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