Ola Cecil Harris

Ola Harris was a lifelong resident of Dayton and a faithful member of The Grove Church. He was deeply rooted in his community and devoted much of his life to serving the people of Rhea County.

He proudly served as Rhea County Sheriff from 1968 to 1974, completing three terms in office. During his time in public service, he was known for his steady leadership, fairness, and commitment to the safety and well-being of the community he called home.

Outside of public service, Ola Harris had a deep passion for truck driving. He spent 16 years working for Harrison Trucking before later continuing his career with Pero Farms, where he took great pride in the work being done and the beautiful peppers grown on his land.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Alfred and Nellie (Pelfrey) Harris; two children, a son, Jerry Harris and a daughter, Mildred Maddox, one brother, Henry Harris; six sisters, Rachel Harris, Lucille Swafford, Loretta Hawkins, Ruth Swafford, Ruby Mickel, and Edna Harris.

He is survived by his children: four daughters, Charlotte (Mac) Lane, Cindy (Don) Yawn, Diane (Eddie) Suttles, and Donna (Moses) Rodgers; and one son, Charles Harris. He is also survived by a large and loving legacy of grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren, all of whom were a source of great pride and joy throughout his life.

Funeral services will be held at The Grove Church on Saturday, December 27th. The family will receive friends from 11:00 a.m. until 2:00 p.m., with the service beginning at 2:00 p.m with Revered Eddie Suttles officiating. Burial will follow at Summer City Cemetery.

The family of Ola Cecil Harris have entrusted their arrangement with Advantage Funeral & Cremation Services, Franklin-Strickland Chaple, 1724 McCallie Ave, Chattanooga, TN 37404, 423-265-4414. To share your thoughts and memories, please visit our website at www.advantagefranklin-strickland.com.