FRANKLIN—Richard Earl Harris, 85, passed away November 13, 2013 in a hospital. He was born in Roanoke Rapids, NC in 1928, the son of Lelia Ferguson and Lawrence Harris of Emporia, VA.

He is survived by his wife of 60 years, Ellen Munford Harris; his sons, Richard E. Harris, Jr. (Becky) of Sedley, Carr L. “Buddy” (Diane) of Manquin, VA; his daughter, Ellen Kathleen “Kathy” Harris and her life partner, Karen Kelley, of Leeds, MA; his son, Matthew Harris and his life partner, Julie Bryne, of Richmond; his granddaughter, Bonnie Hammontree, of Cape Cod and his grandson, Samuel Harris, of Manquin; brothers, Ervin M. Harris and Herman Harris, both of Emporia; sisters, Dean H. Riggan of Littleton, NC and Ann F. Harris of Emporia and many nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his parents and sister, Daphine H. Edwards.

He served with the US Army in occupied Japan and was a graduate of Greensville County High School and Bliss Electrical School, Takoma Park, DC. He was Chief engineer of WYSR and WLQM for 35 years and a TV technician over 55 years, and was a self-proclaimed Poet and avid hunter.

A graveside service, with military honors, will be held at 11 AM on Monday, November 18, 2013 at St. Luke’s Cemetery, Smithfield with the Rev. James H. Hyatt, Jr. officiating. Visitation will be held from 3 to 4:30 PM on Sunday at Wright Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to a favorite charity. www.wrightfuneralhome.org.