Roland A Harris Sr.

Roland A. Harris Sr., affectionately known as Buddy or Big Kill, passed away peacefully in the arms of his daughter Rochele Jones and granddaughter Shantel Harris on Tuesday, July 15, 2025, at his home in Gretna, LA. He was a lifelong native of New Orleans and a resident of Gretna. Mr. Harris was baptized at an early age at True Vine Baptist Church. He attended New Orleans Public Schools.
Roland retired from Delta Petroleum as an oil blender after dedicating 60 and a half years of service. Mr. Harris loved fishing, which earned him the nickname "Big Kill".
He was born on July 4, 1937, to the late Ada and Dave Harris. He is survived by his beloved children, Rochele Jones and Dana Harris; stepchildren Larry Tero and Terry (Wanda) Frank; and was a father figure to Gregory Francis. He was also the godfather of Shelia Carter and Juanita McKinney Regis.
Roland was the cherished brother of Marva Lewis, Shelia Albright, Debra George, and Myra Harris; and brother-in-law of Patricia, Aldine and Amy Harris, Gwendolyn (James) Rayford, Jane (Andrew), Donald, Ronald, and Patricia Lewis, Marion Enclarde, Bernice Lee, and Bertha Joseph.
He was a loving grandfather to 28 grandchildren, 45 great-grandchildren, and 26 great-great-grandchildren. He also leaves behind a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives, and friends.
Roland was preceded in death by his parents, Ada and Dave Harris; his wife, Mary Harris; and his ex-wife, Leona Harris. He was also predeceased by his son, Roland Harris Jr.; three stepchildren, Martha Homestead, Albert Tero, and Ronnie Tero; one sister, Doris Francis; five brothers, Cleveland, Donald, Aldon, Raymond, and Norman Harris; four grandchildren, Qiana, Quinnita, Shonta, and Richard Jones Jr.; and one great-grandchild, Keyandre Collins.
Relatives and friends are invited to attend the Celebration of Life honoring Roland Harris on Saturday, August 2, 2025, at True Vine Missionary Baptist Church of New Orleans, 2008 Marigny Street, New Orleans, Louisiana. Viewing begins at 9:00 AM, and the service will follow at 10:00 AM. Rev. Donald JeanJacques Sr., Pastor, will officiate. Interment will follow at Merrick Cemetery, 7405 E. St. Bernard Hwy, Violet, LA 70092.