Published by Legacy Remembers on Aug. 5, 2025.
Patricia Diane Harris, 77, of
Milton, Georgia, passed away peacefully on the morning of July 11th, 2025, ending a long and courageous journey.
Born on February 10th, 1948, in Richmond, Virginia, "Patsy" was the eldest child of her late parents, Helen Elizabeth McGee and Henry Carter Harris Sr., a proud veteran of the U.S. Navy. She grew up in Highland Springs, Virginia, where she helped raise her seven younger siblings.
In 1973, she married Craig Shelton Harris, beginning 51 years of matrimony. Their marriage led to Patricia's proudest achievement: becoming a loving and completely devoted mother to her three children. She dedicated this new chapter of her life to nurturing many more infants and toddlers as well, by starting an in-home daycare in Richmond. Upon the family's move to Georgia, she continued her successful childcare business in the cities of Roswell and Alpharetta. For over thirty years, she was a second mother to numerous little ones, who would all come to know her simply as "Miss Tricia."
Patricia adored spending time with her family, whether playing games and dining out together, vacationing, or simply just laughing and talking. She was a trusted confidante and mentor to all of her children and grandchildren. Perhaps her most cherished tradition was elaborately decorating the home during Christmas, making it an unforgettable and magical holiday for the kids each year. She loved cooking delicious food and hosting holiday parties. Her homemade chocolate chip cookies were truly legendary among family and friends. Patricia enjoyed music, dancing, watching TV, and shopping. In her younger years, she competed in beauty pageants and modeled. She shared a passion for watching car races and driving sports cars through beautiful mountain landscapes with her husband. Wherever she went, she was known for bringing joy, laughter, and fun.
Patricia was a unique woman of grace, beauty, and wisdom. She is survived by her devoted husband, Craig, and their children: Aaron Shelton Harris, Brian Cabell Harris, and Cameron Diane Congleton (Geoffrey). Patricia's legacy will continue to live on through her five beloved grandchildren: Jackson, Sydney, Rigel, Michaela, and Landon.
She is also survived by her brothers, Henry "Bubba" Carter Harris Jr. and Gregory Scott Harris, both of Richmond, Virginia. She is reunited in spirit with her parents, and her late siblings: Susan, Terri, Cynthia, Gloria, and Jeffrey.
Patricia touched countless lives with her generosity, strength, and compassion. In her final days, she asked for those she left behind to not be sad. She said "don't cry, be happy." Now among the angels and Jesus Christ, whom she loved so very much, she will always remain with us in spirit, and her memory will forever be a blessing.
In accordance with Patricia's wishes, a public memorial service will not be held. A private farewell with her immediate family will occur in the near future. Her family extends deep gratitude to those who have reached out to send prayers and support.