Robert L. Harris

Robert L. Harris PORTSMOUTH - Retired U.S. Navy Chief Robert Linwood Harris entered eternal rest Aug. 23, 2008, at Norfolk Healthcare Center, Norfolk. "Chief," as he was known by all, was one of the first African Americans to reach the rank of chief petty officer. He also served with John F. Kennedy on PT 109. Between active duty Navy and civil service, he spent 41 years of meritorious service. Chief Harris was born in Portsmouth July 27, 1917, to Dennis and Celestine Harris. On Jan. 5, 1935, he married the former Quintilla M. Pitt and for 73 years, they remained a loving couple. He is survived by his wife, Quintilla; one son, Robert Eugene and daughter-in-law Joyce; four grandchildren, Robert II, Teressa, John and Ryan; nine great-grandchildren; a devoted cousin, James Harris; and a large number of other relatives and caring friends. Chief Harris was a faithful member of Third Baptist Church, Portsmouth, where he served on the Senior Choir until his health failed. He was also a Master Mason, a 50-year-plus member of Lebanon Lodge No. 34 of the Most Worshipful Prince Hall Grand Lodge of Virginia, F&AM Inc. Chief's laughter and zest for life will be greatly missed by all. A funeral will be held at 1 p.m. Friday at Third Baptist Church with Pastor Joe B. Fleming officiating. Interment will be in Lincoln Memorial Cemetery. Corprew Funeral Home is handling arrangements.