Rev. Millard W. Harris Jr.

1933 - 2025

Rev. Millard W Harris Jr.

April 6, 1933 - October 3, 2025

Rev. Millard W. Harris Jr., 92, of Morganton, entered eternal rest on October 3, 2025. He is now at peace and resting in the arms of Jesus, along with his daughter, Mitzi and his son, Michael Harris. Born April 6, 1933, in Wilkesboro, N.C., and leaves behind his precious wife of 67 years, Bettye L. Harris; and his beloved son, Matthew. He is also survived by two sisters, Barbara Garrett of Oxon Hill, Md., and Janice "Toppy" Harris of Richmond, Va. in addition to a host of special nieces; nephews; and many family members.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Millard Sr. and Verna Harris; two siblings, Allen Harris and Veronica Turner.

Millard was a faithful servant, educator, and pastor in New Jersey from 1975 to 1999. The last 26 years of his work in the ministry was with Pilgrim Baptist Church in Red Bank, N.J. Millard was a successful educator in many school districts in New Jersey and a passionate advocator for equal rights for the African American community. Millard was a proud graduate of Winston Salem State Teachers College (WSSU); following graduation he was drafted into the United States Army in Fort Jackson, S.C. During his time in service Millard was integral in fighting for equal treatment and rights for all African American athletes. He earned his divinity degree from Virginia Union School of Theology in 1975 and used his degree to walk out his passion to serve the Lord until his retirement.

One of Millard's greatest accomplishments was to be one of the original Harlem Globetrotters from 1958 to 1959 and 1962 to 1963. He joined the Saperstein's Chicago Majors from 1962 to 1963. Millard was a giant of a man in how he carried himself and lived out his life for the Lord. He was loved by everyone he encountered. When he spoke, it was with such authority and passion. Although soft spoken, people paid attention whenever he spoke. Millard had an inner joy that reflected in his eyes and carried in his voice. He will be greatly missed!

A homegoing celebration honoring the life of Rev. Millard W. Harris will be held Sunday, October 12, 2025, at 2 p.m., at New Damascus Baptist Church in Wilkesboro with Rev. Keith Knox serving as the eulogist; interment will follow in the church cemetery. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service.