John Calvin Harris Jr.

John C. Harris Jr., affectionately known as “Ish,” passed away peacefully at the age of 97 on June 16, 2025, at a rehabilitation facility in Groton, Connecticut. He was born on December 18, 1927, in New London, Connecticut, the third of eight children born to the late John C. Harris Sr. and Geneva Bland Harris.

John was raised in New London where he attended Bulkeley High School and a proud graduate from the Class of 1947. He began his working life at the S.S. Kresge store on State Street in New London before serving his country in the United States Army during the Korean War from 1950 to 1953. Upon returning home, he began working for Electric Boat, where he was fondly known as “Ish Harris the Welder.” Through dedication and hard work, he rose to the position of Welding Supervisor and retired after 38 years of service. After retiring from Electric Boat, he continued serving his local New London community by working as a custodian at New London High School for over a decade.

In 1960, John married the love of his life, Annie Pearl Wilson. Together, they shared more than 60 beautiful years of marriage and welcomed their cherished daughter, Sheila Harris. John and Pearl traveled extensively throughout the East Coast, Hawaii, and the Caribbean, creating lasting memories with family and friends.

John had a lifelong love of sports. He played fast-pitch softball with the “New London Dragons” alongside his brother William “Buddha” Harris, and he remained a devoted New York Yankees fan since the 1930s. He was also an avid bowler, winning numerous tournaments with his team.

A man of deep faith, John was a long-time member of Shiloh Baptist Church. He was also a dedicated member and Past Master of Jeptha Lodge #11, where his commitment to brotherhood left a lasting impact on his fellow lodge members. John remained active in community life and was honored by the New London branch of the NAACP, which awarded a scholarship in 2018 in his name. He was also a member of the “Black New Londoners” where he was the last serving president helping to fundraise the creation and installation of plaques that honored the African Americans at the Ye Antientist Burial Ground in New London.

He leaves his devoted wife, Annie Pearl Harris; loving daughter, Sheila Harris; and beloved grandson, Kieran Blackburn to cherish his memory. He is also survived by his sister Hilda (Joseph) Denton; sisters-in-law JoAnn (Bruce) Johnson and Gloria (Jimmie) Willson; former sister-in-law Elsie Hall Maultsby, and a host of nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends.

John was predeceased by his parents, John C. Harris Sr. and Geneva Harris; siblings Adele Harris, Genevie (Rotha) McCoy, Natalie (Ernest) Gardner, June (Bert) Augmon, Mary Ann (Thomas) Jordan, William (Phyllis) Harris, Joseph Daniels; and grandson Nolan L. McKevin.

John “Ish” Harris Jr. was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend to many. His presence was a blessing, and his legacy of love, service, and strength will live on in all who knew him.

Visitation will be held on June 27, 2025 from 10:00am to 11:00am with funeral services commencing at 11:00am at the Fulton-Theroux Funeral Service in New London, CT.