Terry Van Harris

Terry Van Harris, a beacon of love and dedication, completed his earthly journey on October 1, 2024, after an extended illness, surrounded by the warmth of his family and the familiar comforts of his hometown, Dothan, Alabama. Born on August 5, 1964, in the same nurturing community, Terry's life was a testament to the enduring power of love and the strength of family bonds.

Terry was a cherished husband to Temeca, a guiding light to his children, T.J. Harris, Marcus White, Willie White, Brittany Rhodes, Laterrica Johnson, and Breanna Rhodes, and a steadfast brother to Tommy Harris, Curtis Harris, Jr., Dorothy Mitchell, Gloria Helms, Sheila Harris, Lisa Harris, Angela Lynch, and Deloris Harris. His life was enriched by a host of nieces and nephews, all of whom he held dear. Terry walked a path laid out by his late parents, Curtis and Dorothy Faulk Harris, his brother Issaih Harris, and by his sister Frances Bryant, whose memories continued to inspire and guide him.

A proud graduate of Columbia High School's class of 1982, Terry's youthful prowess on the basketball court was just the beginning of a life marked by passion and persistence. His work ethic was unparalleled; a workaholic and go-getter, Terry never knew the meaning of rest when it came to his endeavors. His hands were rarely still, always busy cutting grass or detailing cars until they shone like diamonds under the Alabama sun.

Yet, it was Terry's spiritual vocation that truly defined him. A minister with an unquenchable fire for the Gospel, he witnessed and preached the love of God wherever he went, teaching about love and salvation with a fervor that touched countless lives. His ministry was not confined to the walls of a church; it was lived out in the everyday acts of kindness and his ceaseless desire to uplift those around him.

Terry's love for the outdoors was as vast as the open skies, with a particular fondness for fishing. He found solace and joy in the simplicity of casting a line into the water, awaiting the gentle tug of connection between man and nature. But it was people, not just fish, that Terry sought to catch with his boundless generosity and open arms. He never met a stranger, only friends he hadn't yet embraced, and he endeavored to help everyone in his orbit.

His spirit was a living embodiment of the words of Mother Teresa: "Not all of us can do great things. But we can do small things with great love." Terry did just that, transforming every small interaction into an opportunity to spread love and positivity.

Those who knew Terry will remember him as the epitome of loving, kind, and generous. His legacy is not merely in the tasks he accomplished but, in the hearts, he touched and the smiles he created. A celebration of Terry's life will be a gathering of joy and remembrance at the Sunset Funeral Home Chapel at 11 am on Tuesday, October 8, 2024. There, stories will be shared from 10-11 am on Tuesday, laughter will echo, and the essence of Terry's spirit will be felt by all in attendance. Following the service, he will be laid to rest at Sunset Memorial Park, where his memory will stand as a beacon for all who knew him.

As we bid farewell to a man whose life was a living sermon of love, let us carry forward the torch of compassion that Terry Van Harris bore so effortlessly. In his memory, let us all strive to live by his example, to cast our lines into the waters of humanity, and reel in souls with the bait of kindness. Terry's journey continues in each of us, every time we choose love over indifference, service over self, and faith over despair.

Robert and Toni Byrd · Sunset Memorial Park

1700 Barrington Rd, Midland City AL · (334) 983-6604