Lucille Virginia Harris

Lucille Virginia (Townsend) Harris was born on December 19, 1932, and was raised in Stockton, Maryland, and Clarksville, Delaware. She was the daughter of Frank J. White and Ruby Townsend. Raised with her mother and her two beloved sisters, Elaine Hudson and Sara Dennis, she attended the Blackwater Colored School in Sussex County Delaware. After relocating to Philadelphia, she proudly completed her high school education at Benjamin Franklin High School within the School District of Philadelphia. She carried that accomplishment with quiet pride, reflecting her resilience, determination, and commitment to building a better future.

Lucille dedicated many years of service in the workforce. She was employed at Bryn Mawr Hospital for 11 years. She later joined Strawbridge & Clothier in Philadelphia, where she faithfully worked for 27 years until her retirement.

In August of 1968, Lucille was united in marriage to Rufus Harris Jr., who lovingly embraced his role as a devoted husband, stepfather, and grandfather, doting on her daughter Joyce and her grandchildren.

Lucille's spiritual foundation was established early in life at Stockton AME Church, where she sang in the choir. In 1963, she became a dedicated member of Ward AME Church under the leadership of Reverend William H. Smallwood. Her service to the church was extensive and heartfelt. She was a member of the Senior Choir, Junior Steward Board, Trustee Board, and served faithfully as a Class Leader. She also lifted her voice in praise as a member of the Mass and Chancellor Choirs.

Lucille found great joy in music and fellowship. Her favorite scripture was the 27th Psalm, and her beloved hymn was "It Is Well With My Soul." She had a deep love for singing and admired the artistry of Sarah Vaughan. In addition to her musical talents, she had a passion for beauty and service, earning her cosmetology license in 1970 from Apex School of Beauty Culture and spending time working in a beauty salon.

Lucille leaves to cherish her memory her devoted daughter, Joyce Ann Dennis; her son-in-law, Michael Bunting; her grandchildren, Robert Eric, Michael Anthony (Damaris), and Joyce Denise Willis; and her great-grandchildren, Travon Branham, Malachi White, Ntazia Brittingham, Jordyn Willis, and Madison Willis; her cousin Margaret Rowley, niece Geraldine Hayward (Leon), nephew Alfred Hudson (Anna), and a host of relatives who will surely miss her presence. She also leaves behind a host of extended family members, friends, and loved ones who will forever remember her warmth, strength, and unwavering faith.

To send a flower arrangement in memory of Lucille Virginia Harris, please click here to visit our sympathy store.