Ada C. Harris

On Sunday, November 10, 2025, Ada Christine Harris entered eternal rest. Her life was a
testament to love, strength, and unwavering dedication to family and a love of God.
Ada was born on August 25, 1935 in Kinston NC to the late Syvanus Sutton and Anner Mae
Goss. She was the fifth of nine children born to Anner Mae. She grew up surrounded by
siblings, sharing laughter and memories through the years. Ada was predeceased by her
siblings Clarence Sutton, Anne Jones, Robert Sutton, Louis Sutton, James Sutton, Lena
Saunders and Sarah Ammons. Her beloved sister Mae King survives her, continuing the
family bond.
Ada committed her life to God in the seventies and became a faithful member of Greater
Refuge Church of Christ under the leadership of Bishop Michael Grayer. She served on the
usher board for many years until she gave the reigns to "the young folks". Even when she
was no longer able to attend church in person, she continued to participate in virtual
fellowship.
Ada's kitchen was the heart of her home, filled with the aroma of her famous pineapple
cake-a treat eagerly anticipated by loved ones. She found joy in simple pleasures:
watching soap operas, passionately following baseball with the Mets, and cheering for the
Miami Heat in basketball. Her stubborn nature was matched only by her playful spirit,
especially during card games with family, where laughter and friendly competition filled the
room.
Ada's work ethic was evident in every role she undertook. Uncle Bob always reminded us
that "Ada was a good worker". Except for that one time she took off – a story you will have
to hear. After leaving Kinston, she worked various factory jobs but found her passion when
she served as a childcare worker. She nurtured countless children as a lunch lady, crossing
guard and a childcare provider.
Ada faced great sorrow with the passing of her daughter, Linda Arnold last year. She was
never quite the same. She also had a son, Roosevelt Sutton, who passed away as an
infant. She leaves to cherish her memory: son-in-law Willie Arnold, grandchildren: Sherice
Koonce, Maria Arnold, and Daryl Saunders. Her great-grandchildren, Kori Haten and Nyla
Boyd, cherished niece Alyshia Goss, who she lovingly considered a bonus granddaughter,
her grand dogs Dasher and Stormy and the memory of Sunny and a host of nieces,
nephews, other relatives and friends.
With a spirit marked by determination, Ada leaves behind a legacy cherished by all who
knew her. Her legacy lives on in the hearts of her family, friends, and all who were
fortunate to know her. As we celebrate Ada's life, we honor her memory and the love she
shared so freely.