News Summary
Dewey A. Harris, a cherished member of the Jacksonville community, has passed away at the age of 98. A veteran of World War II, Harris is remembered for his dedication to family, faith, and service. Born in Georgia, he moved to Jacksonville where he built a life centered around love and hard work. His legacy includes his wife Sarah, three daughters, grandchildren, and a strong commitment to his church community. Visitation services are scheduled for family and friends to pay their respects.
Jacksonville, FL – Dewey A. Harris, a beloved member of the Jacksonville community, passed away on June 25, 2025, at the age of 98. Harris is remembered for his deep commitment to family, faith, and his dedicated service to the nation during World War II.
Harris was born on October 15, 1926, in Patterson, Georgia, to the late William Harris and Mary Walker Harris. He was a resident of Jacksonville since 1949, where he built a life filled with love and service. Harris enlisted in the U.S. Army on February 16, 1945, at Fort McPherson and served as a technician fifth grade in the 345th Ordnance Depot Company. After serving his country with honor, he was discharged on November 30, 1946, at Fort Sam Houston, Texas.
In addition to his military service, Harris was known for his devotion to his family and faith. He married Sarah Westberry, who he described as the love of his life, and the couple resided together in Jacksonville for more than six decades until her passing. Together, they raised three daughters: Anne Hines (married to Rusty) of Jacksonville, Alice Johnson of Beaufort, SC, and Sandy Windhaus (married to Robert) of Ball Ground.
Throughout his career, Harris held various positions, including work in the accounting field and obtaining a barber’s license. He spent 42 years at Safety Green Scaffolding, retiring in 1986. Beyond his professional life, he was an avid woodworker and enjoyed farming on weekends. His hobbies reflected his love for creating and nurturing, elements he cherished in his personal life.
Harris was also deeply involved in his faith community, serving as an elder at Forest Christian Church before becoming an active member of North Jacksonville Baptist Church. His commitment to the church was evident in his service and participation in various church activities over the years.
He is preceded in death by his wife Sarah Harris, who passed away after 62 years of marriage, one sister, and four brothers. He is survived by his daughters, grandchildren including Teresa (married to Casey), Jacob (married to Erika), Macie (married to Hamp), and Rebecca, as well as great-grandchildren Cadelyn, Tristan, Lucy, and Eleonore. Harris is also survived by several nieces, nephews, and extended family members who will remember him fondly.
Visitation for family and friends is scheduled for Monday, June 30, from 5 to 7 p.m. at Peeples Family Funeral Home in Jacksonville. The graveside funeral service will take place at 11 a.m. on Tuesday, July 1, at Laura Chapel Cemetery near Patterson. The service will honor Harris with military honors provided by the U.S. Army, recognizing his service to the nation.
In lieu of flowers, contributions in memory of Dewey A. Harris may be made to North Jacksonville Baptist Church. Those wishing to express their sympathy can sign the online register at www.pearsondial.com. Arrangements for the services are being managed by Pearson-Dial Funeral Home of Blackshear.
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- Pearson-Dial Funeral Home: Dewey A. Harris
- Wikipedia: World War II
- Legacy: Carroll Turner
- Google Search: Dewey A. Harris
- Legacy: Cecil Cabler
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Military Service
- Legacy: Alice Chantre
- Google News: Dewey A. Harris
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