Deborah Harris

Born in Laurel, MS she was the daughter of Hattie Combs and Rufus Baker, with mention of Gorie Combs that was a stepfather who raised her as his very own. They have all preceded her in transition. She was one of three children. Albert Baker, preceded in transition and Herbert Baker (Boston, MA). When she was three years of age, her family moved to New York City in search of a better life.

As a child, Deborah enjoyed singing in the choir along with her family and friends at Meek Baptist church in Harlem, NY, founded by her Uncle Reverend Preston Duckworth. In her adult years, she then joined Canaan Baptist Church of Christ in Harlem, NY and spent many years there.

Deborah was raised in the South Bronx where she attended and graduated from Taft High School. She then went on to receive her degree at Berkley College. In her early 20’s she relocated to Harlem, NY and resided there until she met and married Thurman Harris who preceded her in transition.

Deborah was gainfully employed for over 40 years as an Editor with McGraw Hill Publishing Company in New York, New York. After the closure of her department, she was then employed as an Assistant Editor with Co-op City times Newspaper in Bronx, NY for over 10 years where she retired. After retirement, Deborah relocated to Charlotte, NC to be with her daughter, Adrienne and granddaughter Amaya. Another grand daughter, Amani would soon follow.

Deborah was known for her understanding nature and protectiveness over those she loved. She was also known for her feistiness to say the least. So much so, that her co-workers playfully nick named her “Mc Nasty”. She had an adoration for her family and friends who will miss her dearly.

Deborah leaves to mourn her passing with cherished memories, her children: Thurman Jones (New York, NY), Lena Harris (Charlotte, NC), David Harris (April) East Orange, NJ, Adrienne Harris (Charlotte, NC), Thurman Harris Jr. and Johnathan Harris who both preceded her in transition. Her brother-in-law Alvin Harris (Gloria) Henderson, NC and Thomas “Dickie” Harris who preceded in transition (Estelle). She also leaves to mourn a host of grand children, great grand children, special cousins, nieces, nephews, Godson and friends.