A native of Opelika, AL., Elder Harris was born on December 2, 1949, the son of the late John Harris and Mother Ocie Harris. He was a graduate of Darden High School in Opelika and attended Utah Technical College. A 21 year veteran of the U.S. Navy, he retired as Chief Petty Officer. He furthered his education by attending Auburn and Clemson Universities. Elder Harris served as the Executive Director and Pastor at the The House of Mercy until his health declined. He was the proud recipient of many notable and prestigious awards and is known throughout the community as a humanitarian and philanthropist.

Other this his parents, he was preceded in death by a daughter, Sonya Harris. 

Surviving are his loving and devoted wife of 37 years, Evangelist Johanne' Key Harris; a son and a daughter, Bobby Dean Harris, Jr and Keisha Harris; a stepson, Troy Hysmith(Tameka) five grandchildren; one brother, John D. Harris(Marie); three sisters, Ethel Russaw(Floyd), Theola Barrow and Bernell O'Neal; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, in-law, the House of Mercy family and friends.