Thomas "Tipp" Harris

Beloved Husband and Father

Today we honor the life of Thomas "Tipp" Harris, a man who touched the lives of so many. Tipp was born in 1955 in Roxbury, Massachusetts, to William and Cynthia Harris. Tipp exhibited a vibrant energy and a curiosity about the world from an early age, traits that would continue to define and inspire his journey through life.

He grew up in the heart of Roxbury's Orchard Park, attending Dearborn Elementary and later graduating from Boston Trade High School. Tipp had an early passion for storytelling through the lens of a camera. Photography and videography were not just hobbies for him-they were expressions of his soul. He had a unique gift for capturing life's most genuine and beautiful moments, often seen documenting his neighborhood and city with an artist's eye and a historian's heart.

Tipp pursued higher education with purpose and passion. He studied at Roxbury Community College. He then attended Boston University, where he earned his Bachelor's degree in communications. His thirst for knowledge and deep sense of spirituality later led him to Xavier University in New Orleans, where he earned his Master's degree in Theology.

A man of many talents, Tipp wore many hats throughout his life. He studied photography, then went on to work as a recruiter for the New England School of Photography, a role that allowed him to travel the world and share his passion with others. While still in Boston, Tipp dedicated his time and creative skills to meaningful projects with organizations like the Council of Elders and Wednesday's Child, always giving back to his community through media that mattered.

In 1981, while working in fashion media at Garland Corporation in Brockton, MA, Tipp met the love of his life, Dorothea Hill. With his love of photography and her love for fashion, together their connection was instant and enduring. They married and built a beautiful life together, raising three incredible children: their sons Thomas T.J. Gumes., Matthew "Meiko" Hill, and their daughter Takhia Harris. Tipp was a devoted husband and a proud, loving father - a steady presence in the lives of his family and many, many others. They shared forty-three memorable years together, serving as a testament to love, partnership and genuine devotion.

Always a prominent member of the church, Tipp was very passionate about the youth. Tipp led and mentored four generations between Saint Francis and Saint Katherine's youth group. In doing so he provided a sanctuary and safe space every Friday night. They would attend local Mass's, provide community outreach, and spend quality time bonding with one another. One astounding achievement was leading the youth group to World Youth Day in Barcelona, Spain. He shaped generations of past youth to become the successful and caring adults of today.

In 2009 Tipp made a new home in Atlanta, Georgia. There he continued his commitment to education and youth, working at the Boys and Girls Club, where he taught computer science. He also served as a TSA agent and later as a Media Specialist at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport. There he was closer to and helped impact the lives of his three grandchildren – Morgan, Lyric, and Thomas III.

Tipp moved through life with a heart attuned to learning, creating, and giving. He found beauty in knowledge, purpose in service, and joy in helping others grow. His mind was ever curious, his spirit ever generous. He touched countless lives-some in quiet moments, others in lasting ways. And though he is no longer with us in body, his light endures in every life he shaped, every mind he opened, every heart he lifted. He leaves us all, "A pinch and a punch for the first of the month."

Thomas "Tipp" Harris leaves to remember his legacy, his wife Dorothea, son Thomas, and daughter Takhia. His three grandchildren, Morgan, Lyric, and Thomas III. His siblings Patricia Smith, Cynthia Harris Sue (Frankie), Linda Henderson, William M. Harris Jr., Rita Harris, Rosalyn Harris, Richard Harris, and Eleanor Jones (John).

He also leaves a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, Godchildren and countless friends.

Tipp now rests in eternal peace, reunited with those who went before him including his father William M. Harris Sr., his beloved mother Cynthia Oliveria Harris, his son Matthew "Meiko" Hill, and his siblings Theresa A. Morris, Dorothy M. Mingoes and Walter "Tiger" Harris.

Acknowledgements

The Family would like to extend our deepest gratitude for the outpouring of love, prayers, and support we've received during this difficult time.

A heartfelt thank you to his amazing Oncology care team at Boston Medical Center whose compassion, and continued support gave Tipp both strength and comfort throughout his illness. We are forever grateful.

We are appreciative to St. Katherine Drexel Church, Father Tom Clark, Father Oscar Pratt, and staff, and all who have assisted in the planning and preparation of his Homegoing service.

Thank you to those who honored Tipp by planting trees and sending flowers in his memory. Your thoughtful gesture is a beautiful tribute to his life and legacy. We take comfort in knowing that his spirit will continue to grow and thrive through these living memorials.

May God bless each and every one of you for the love and kindness you've shown. Your thoughtful outreach and generous gifts were received with heartfelt gratitude.

With much love and appreciation,

The Family