Toy Harris

Evelyn Toy Harris, age 71, of Holly Springs, North Carolina, passed away unexpectedly on Friday, July 11, 2025. Born in Brunswick, Georgia, on May 6, 1954, Toy was the beloved daughter of the late Leland and Phyllis Yelvington.

Toy’s life was one of quiet strength, deep love, and enduring grace. A devoted wife, mother, sister, and friend, she leaves behind her loving husband, Ronald J. Harris, Jr.; her children, Philip Connelly with his partner Hannah McCracken, Katie Connelly with her partner Trevor Redpath, Christopher Harris and his wife Jessica Colella, and Eric Harris; and her cherished dog, Sophie, who rarely left her side.

Toy’s heart overflowed with love for each of her children, but her bond with Katie and Philip was uniquely tender and profound. She delighted in their lives with boundless pride and compassion, always championing their dreams and celebrating their individuality.

Toy is also survived by her siblings: Elizabeth Wells and her husband Doug, Melinda Isaacs and her husband John Henry, Lee Yelvington and his wife Linda, and Mike Yelvington. She was a treasured aunt to many nieces and nephews and a beloved godmother to Alyssa and Zachary Jamison, who held a special place in her heart. She especially cherished family vacations at the Outer Banks, where her love for the ocean and the serenity of the shoreline created cherished memories for generations to come.

After more than 30 years of dedicated service, Toy retired from IBM, though her creative spirit never retired. She often reflected on her love for the arts, wishing she had done more with her art degree—but her appreciation for beauty was evident everywhere she touched, from her vibrant flower beds to the Monet prints that adorned her home. Her love of Paris and all things elegant shone through in the way she lived.

An active soul, Toy found great joy and strength in her yoga and MELT practices. Her health and mindfulness journey was not just a routine, but a reflection of the care she extended to every part of her life—especially her home, where she took great pride in having the best looking shrubbery and flowers in the neighborhood.

She was surrounded by a wide circle of friends who adored her for her warmth, her sense of humor, and her unwavering loyalty. Toy had a unique ability to make others feel seen, heard, and loved. Her presence will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by all who knew her.

A private celebration of Toy's life will be held at a later date, with invitations extended to family and Toy's close friends. Our family invites you to share your memories, stories, and condolences by selecting “Add a Memory” below. In this way, we can honor Toy’s legacy—one of kindness, creativity, and enduring love.

Thank you for keeping Toy’s spirit alive with your love and memories.