Johnnie Harris

He is proceeded in death by his father Charlie Harris, brother Charlie Harris and mother Willie Pearl Harris.

The US Forest Service was his love. He found serenity being surrounded by trees and nature. Smokey the Bear became his legacy as he donned the costume many times in promotion of preventing forest fires for several communities.

Music was his passion and second love. Our earliest memories are of him playing the bongos and congas around the house.

In 1974 he met his namesake Johnnie Mae Brown who became his partner in life. Although Johnnie Mae birthed three children, Natasha Mitchell died before they met. Together they raised two children LaVette Shunta (Harris) Berrian, and Jay Douglas Mitchell. They have five grandchildren: Domenique-Alexis Giavanni Berrian (*Melvin), Jalen Anthony Mitchell (Erin), Q’Ristien-Keana Rachelle Berrian (*Gilberto), DeVan-Divante Scot Berrian (Brianna) and Janae Renee Mitchell. Last year he was elated to find he had a great grandson Legend Truu Charles Booth.

Johnnie leaves his wife, children, grandchildren, great grandson, siblings: George Harris (Emma), Hattie Mae Smith, Robert Harris, Otis Harris (Deborah), Savannah Jones, Addie Jones, and sister in-law Mamie Harris, brother-in law Solomon Perry, other family members and friends to keep his memory alive.

Dad lived his life full-out and in color. He had his own mind and didn’t hesitate to let you know what was on it. He would cuss you out in an Alabama minute and the F bomb seemed to be his favorite word. His presence will be greatly missed.

***A Celebration of Life is planned for August 2024 at 428 Westchester Hills Lane Valrico, FL 33594. Dates will be announced later.