William "Bill" L. Harris

William “Bill” Lee Harris, 72, passed away on Sunday, November 2, 2025, at his residence in Afton surrounded by his family.

He was born on January 3, 1953, in Staunton to the late Carl Alexander and Mary Evaline Cason Harris.

Bill graduated from Virginia Tech in 1975 with a bachelor’s degree, in Electrical Engineering Technology. He was a proud Virginia Tech alumnus, never taking off his Virginia Tech ring. His career as an electrical engineer was not just a job, but a passion he truly loved.

Bill was a true jack of all trades who could fix just about anything and was always willing to lend a hand to anyone in need. A gifted craftsman and tinkerer, he was also known for creating disciple cross necklaces for people out of horseshoe nails - each one made with care as a symbol of faith and friendship.

Outside of his work, Bill found joy in life’s simple pleasures. He loved living above the ninth fairway at Swannanoa Golf Course, where he could often be found collecting golf balls. He made his own wine at home, loved animals dearly, and had an easygoing way that made everyone feel welcome. Known as a master of dad jokes, his quick wit and infectious laugh brought smiles wherever he went.

Music was another of Bill’s many gifts. A natural musician, he could pick up nearly any stringed instrument and play it with ease.

He is survived by his wife, Elizabeth Kent Hungerford Harris; his sons, Shaun David Harris (Shara), Christopher Aaron Harris, and Chase Alexander Quick (Jennifer); his daughters, Melissa Dawn Harris (Andrew) and Gwinn Elizabeth Harris Hall (Skylar); his brothers, Clarence “CB” Bushong Harris, Sr. and Leland Francis Harris, Sr.; his sister, Mary Sandra Harris Sink; his three grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren.

In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by his brothers, Carl Alexander Harris, Jr., Carlton Andrew Harris, and Rayburn Eugene Harris, Sr.

The family will receive friends from 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM on Friday, November 7, 2025, at Ridgeview Baptist Church in Stuarts Draft.

A funeral service will be held immediately following the visitation with Pastor Don McClure officiating.

For his Maryland friends and family, the family will receive friends at 10:00 AM on Saturday, November 8, 2025, at Christ Church Wayside in Newburg, Maryland.

A funeral service will be held immediately following the visitation with Pastor Don McClure officiating.

Interment will follow in the church cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be made to Marine Toys for Tots Foundation (c/o Gift Processing Administrator, 18251 Quantico Gateway Drive, Triangle, VA 22172) or Trinity Hospice (944 Glenwood Station Ln, Ste 302, Charlottesville, VA 22901).