Jerry Dean Harris

Jerry Dean Harris, 77, transitioned to his heavenly home, surrounded by his loving family, on Thursday, August 13, 2026, at UT Medical Center, in Knoxville, TN. He was born on June 4, 1949, and is a native of Athens, TN.

He was preceded in death by his parents, father, James Alfred Harris and mother, Esma Irene Harris Womac; brother, JW Harris; daughter, Angie Boe; and grandson, Gary Boe.

Jerry honorably served his country by completing two tours in Vietnam, as a member of the 2nd Battalion, 9th Infantry Division.

He was a loving father who had a great love and passion for all kids, not just his own, having served at various times throughout his life as a basketball coach, baseball coach, scout master, and state director over Dizzy Dean Baseball for many years.

Jerry was employed by TU Parks Construction in Chattanooga, TN, retiring after almost 30 years of service. He later worked and retired from McKee Bakery, in Cleveland, TN, and drove a school bus for the McMinn County Schools System. At the time of his death, he was employed by Britton Private Security, in Athens, TN.

He leaves to cherish his loving memory one brother, Ray (Jean) Harris of Athens, TN; two sons, Christopher (Taryn) Harris and Justin (Tara) Harris, all of Athens, TN; Three grandsons, Deandre Clark (Tojo as Jerry called him), Camryn Harris (Mojo as Jerry called him), and Tylen (Alexis) Arnwine (Lil Bill as Jerry called him); Two granddaughters, Ramiyah Thompson, Angel Boe; Four great grandchildren, Tylen, Colvey, Killian, Camden; One special niece Kim (Corey) Shiestel; two special friends Donnie (Janelle) Young and Frankie Grier; and a host of nieces, nephews, family, and friends.

Serving as pallbearers are Deandre Clark, Camryn Harris, Tylen Arnwine, Corey Shiestel, Ray Cunningham, Donnie Young, and Jamie Harris. Nieces will serve as flower girls.

Visitation will be held on Wednesday, August 19, 2026, with receiving of family and friends from 5-7pm, funeral to follow from 7-8pm, at Laycock-Hobbs Funeral Home in Athens. Graveside service will be at McMinn Memory Gardens, the funeral procession will leave the funeral home at 11:00am, on Thursday, August 20, where he will be laid to rest in full military honors.

~*~ Blessed are those who have not seen and yet believe. John 20:29 ~*~ Do you know HIM?