Byard Wesley Harris

Byard "Wes" Harris, Jr., age 78, took his final bow after an extended illness on

September 6, 2025, on the Palliative and Hospice Unit at Baptist Health Louisville. A man of heart and humor, Wes never let a moment for a good hug or dad joke go to waste.

He is survived by his wife Linda Harris, son Trey Harris (Sheri), daughter Ruth Hofmann (Chris), brother Charlie (Sheryl), sister Margaret (Bob), eight grandchildren, and a cherished bonus family who adored him as much as he adored them. He will be missed by his devoted wife whose unwavering care and companionship were the harmony to his melody. They spent every day together playing with their cat (Jadzia), watching their favorite shows and sports, laughing, and supporting each other with love and humor. His family will forever remember his booming laugh and his uncanny ability to yell at the referees and players like they owed him money.

Wes was a gifted vocalist whose voice could fill a room and lift a spirit. He held a deep love for the works of Johann Sebastian Bach. His car stereo was a shrine to classical music, much to the dismay of his children and grandchildren, who occasionally tried (and failed) to sneak in a pop song. He could name almost any tune if it was composed between 1685 and 1750, and if you played something out of tune around him, you could expect a raised eyebrow and a full review.

An enthusiastic sports fan, he cheered with gusto, analyzed plays, and shared his

opinion openly on the way each game was played. In the last year of his life, his

daughter helped him develop an affinity for the WNBA, becoming a spirited fan and proving that it's never too late to fall in love with something new or support your children's passions.

He gave legendary hugs, sparked unforgettable conversations, and had a bookshelf that could rival a small library. His humor was sharp, his sarcasm inherited by his children, and his love of books and music was matched only by his love for the people around him.

Though the music has quieted, the echoes of Wes's life-his voice, his wit, and his hugs will continue to play in the hearts of those who knew and loved him. His legacy will also continue through his generous donation of tissue through the Network of Hope, providing hope and healing to countless lives.

If you would like to donate in memory of Wes, family asks that you consider the

following organizations that were meaningful to him; Hosparus Health, Voce Novae, or the Rapier Fund at Highland Presbyterian Church.

Family and friends are invited to celebrate Wes's life on Saturday, September 27, 2025, at Highland Presbyterian Church in Louisville, KY. Visitation will begin at 11:30 AM, followed by a service at 1:00 PM. Come ready to share stories and laughter.