Charley Harris Jr.

Charley “Sam” Harris Jr. was born in Winter Haven, Florida on October 24, 1937, to Clara Ford and Charley Harris. He was a devoted dad, grandpa, brother, uncle, and friend. He passed away March 16, 2026 at the age of 88. He accepted Christ later in life, and was a faithful member of the Church of God of Prophecy under the guidance of Gerri Jacobs in Lansing, Michigan for over 20 years.

Charley was impressed with semitrucks from a young age. He received a certification in Diesel Engine Technology from Lansing Community College, and spent 30 plus years as a truck driver, hauling for Mayflower, North American Van Lines, and finishing the last 10 years of his career at Grand Rapids Sash & Door. Co. He enjoyed speaking about his experiences hauling livestock and commercial products all across the United States. Charley was a devoted family man. He married Ruby Harris in 1968 and together raised five children in Lansing, Michigan instilling in them a deep sense of faith, family, and community. Charley always showed up for family and took pride in the accomplishments of his children and grandchildren. He was also a devoted man of service. Charley was a 33rd degree mason of the International Masons until his chapter dissolved. He was also a recognized staple of his Cedar Place community where he resided for nearly 20 years.

Charley was a fun person to be around. He enjoyed a strong cup of coffee with sugar, playing pool, and watching Spartan and Lions football. Charley loved sweets and kept candy and cookies to share. He loved the outdoors including fishing and tending to his many plants. Charley also enjoyed listening to music, writing, and making beautiful embroidered blankets and pillowcases for family and friends. His laughter and jokes filled any room, and Charley truly never met a stranger.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Clara Ford and Charley Harris; siblings, William Harris, India James, Douglas Harris, Rosetta Harris; and son in-law, Dave McCloud.

He leaves to cherish his memory children, Dawn Brown, Dionne (William) Harris McKinzie, Roshawn Harris, Michelle McCloud, and Robert Harris; 15 grandchildren; 16 great-grandchildren; siblings, Joseph Harris, Ruby Parker, Vera Lane, Cathy (Gerald) Lewis, Lutricia Julian, and Cedric (Linda) Ford; and many nieces, nephews, relatives, friends, and church family.