Larry Harris

1940 - 2026

Mahomet - On Saturday, Jan. 3, 2026, Larry Allen Harris went home to the kingdom of heaven.

Born in Malta, Mont., on Feb. 1, 1940, the third child to Kenneth Harris and Ruth (Warford) Harris, Larry later moved and graduated from Unity High School in 1958. That same year, his daughter and lifelong source of pride and joy, Kimberly Ann (Harris) Nizzio, was born. After graduating from high school, Larry started his apprenticeship with the Plumber/Steamfitters Local 149 in 1962, became a journeyman in 1967, and began his career with the University of Illinois in 1986, retiring in 2002.

Larry was fortunate enough to marry his beautiful and devoted wife, Stephanie (Kelley) Harris, and unite both of their wonderful families in 1982.

In his free time, Larry, like his father, served his community as a proud member of the Freemasons, was an avid golfer and all-around outdoor enthusiast. His friends and family will remember him as an affectionate, dedicated, hardworking and beloved husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather, who was well known for his infectious laughter, seemingly endless stores of patience and compassion, and for always thinking of others before himself.

Larry was preceded in death by his parents and sisters, Sandra Harris, Marlene (Robert) Livesay of Tennessee and Pamela (Vance) Stacy of Texas.

He is survived by his loving wife, Stephanie Harris; sisters, Janet O'Banion of Maryville, Tenn., and Denise Harris; daughter, Kimberly (Anthony) Nizzio of Riverton; stepsons, Albert Kelley of Montezuma, Ind., Jay Kelley of Blanford, Ind., Michael Kelley of Mahomet and Kevin Kelley; grandchildren, Charlina Kelley, Amanda (John) Graves, Audra Kelley, Alison Kelley, Megan (Lucas) Shafer, Coco (Dillon) Salerno, Michael Kelley, AJ Kelley, Jameson Kelley and Hayden White; as well as a very large and loving network of great-grandchildren, extended family and friends.

An open visitation and funeral service will be from noon to 1 p.m. Jan. 17 at Countryside United Methodist Church, 1807 County Road 1000 North, Urbana, and a graveside service for the family to follow. Condolences may be offered at renner-wikoff.com.