Robert A. "Bobby" Harris

Robert Allen "Bobby" Harris, a man of remarkable spirit and dedication to his community, passed away on November 13, 2024 at his home in Lincoln County, Georgia. Born on February 17, 1941, in McDuffie County, Georgia, Bobby was the cherished son of the late Ernest and Myra Hawkins Harris. Raised in the Panhandle of Warren County, he grew up with a love for sports and community that shaped his entire life.
Bobby's high school years were marked by athletic prowess. He shone as fullback, wearing number 39 for the Warrenton Blue Devils. His commitment to the team was unwavering, even in the face of heavy recruitment from the Thomson Bulldogs. In a Thanksgiving Day game that would become local legend, Bobby led the Blue Devils against the Bulldogs to a 25-0 victory over their arch-rivals during his senior year. His skill on the field was further recognized when he made the All-State football team in both 1957 and 1958. But Bobby's athletic success was matched by his achievements on the basketball court, where he was also recognized as one of Warrenton's most outstanding athletes.
After graduating in 1959, Bobby's entrepreneurial spirit took flight. He became a well-respected insurance agent and car salesman, and he owned a grocery store on Greenway Street in Thomson when he was in his 20's. But it was his foray into public service that truly defined his career. Bobby served as McDuffie County Tax Commissioner from 1969 to 1985, and his commitment to his community did not stop there. He went on to represent Georgia State District 84 in the House of Representatives from 1985 until 1995. His political career was capped by his tenure as Assistant Agriculture Commissioner for the State of Georgia from 1986 until 2006, where he took immense pride in protecting the integrity of the Vidalia onion name.
A diehard Georgia Bulldog fan, Bobby's love for football remained a constant throughout his life. His intelligence and passion for his interests were evident to all who knew him. In his personal life, Bobby found joy in gardening and attended Bethany Methodist Church in his later years.
He is survived by his daughters, Debra A. Harris of Thomson and Donna Quick of Waynesboro; his grandchildren, Art Harris and Michael Quick; and his great-grandson, Maddux Harris. The family would like to thank his caregivers, Brenda Norman, Kitty Meadows, Flontina Ferrell, Patricia Bennett, and Mae Lou Tate, as well as the exceptional support from Allay Hospice in his final days. He was preceded in death by his wife Judy Banks Bradley Harris; brothers, George and Frank Harris, and sisters, Dot Ellenburg and Minnie Montgomery. His legacy is one of unwavering commitment to his family, his community, and the state of Georgia.
Robert Allen Harris lived a life marked by achievement, community service, and an unyielding love for the people and places that shaped him. As we remember Bobby, we celebrate a life lived with enthusiasm, dedication, and a passion that inspired all who were fortunate enough to cross his path. He will be deeply missed, but the memories he created will continue to warm the hearts of his family, friends, and the many lives he touched.
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Allay Hospice, 415 West Hill St., Thomson, Ga 30824.
Graveside services will be held on Saturday, November 16, 2024 at 11 a.m. at Savannah Valley Memorial Gardens, Thomson. The family will receive friends from 5pm until 7pm on Friday evening at Beggs Funeral Home, THOMSON.
Beggs Funeral Home is honored to serve the family of Mr. Robert A. "Bobby" Harris.
To send flowers
to the family or plant a tree
in memory of Robert A. "Bobby" Harris, please visit our floral store.