Darrell Wayne Harris SR

Darrell Harris ObituaryObituary published on Legacy.com by Massie Funeral Home on Mar. 16, 2026.Darrell Wayne Harris Sr., age 69, of Ullin, Illinois, passed away on March 13, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family. He was born on September 13, 1956, in Fayette, Missouri, and graduated from Fayette High School in 1974.From a young age, Darrell showed a strong work ethic and a willingness to help others. As a child, he delivered newspapers and took on various outdoor jobs.As a young man, Darrell began what would become a remarkable 35-year career in the railroad industry, working with Norfolk Southern, Illinois Central, and ultimately Union Pacific Railroad, where he retired.He shared 48 beautiful years of marriage with his beloved wife, Novella, who was his steadfast partner and confidant. Their bond was a testament to love, commitment, and the strength of a life lived side by side.Darrell was full of life-warm, outgoing, and endlessly generous. He never met a stranger and had a gift for making people feel welcome. A devoted member of Lighthouse House of Refuge Church, Brother Darrell served faithfully and joyfully, always ready to lend a hand.His greatest passions were simple and sincere: spending time with family and friends, spoiling his grandchildren, mowing grass, cutting wood, fishing, and being around people. His grandchildren knew that "Grandpa would always be there"-with support, love, and unlimited treats.Darrell was preceded in death by his mother, Betty Jean Harris; sisters Carolyn Ann Harris and Tawana Joe Edwards; and brothers Sandy Harris, Donald Harris, Tracy Edwards Jr., George Edwards Sr., and William Edwards.He leaves to cherish his memory his loving wife, Novella Harris; his children Dashawn "Dara", Darrell Jr. "Marshia", and Armetrice "Micheal" ; and his beloved 12 grandchildren and 2 great grandchildren.Darrell is also survived by his siblings Vanessa Harris, Tammy Harris, and Mike Edwards, along with a host of extended family members, church family, friends, and all who were blessed to know him.Darrell's life was a testament to love, loyalty, and kindness. His love and legacy will live on in the hearts of all who knew him, especially in the heart of his devoted wife, Novella.A Visitation will be held on Tuesday March 17, 2026 at Massie Funeral Home in Mounds, Illinois from 5:00 PM until 7:00 PM. A Celebration of life service will be held on Thursday March 19, 2026 at 1:00 PM held at St. Paul United Methodist Church in Fayette, Missouri. Burial will follow in the Fayette City Cemetery. Online condolences may be left at massiefuneralhome.comTo send a flower arrangement in memory of Darrell Wayne Harris, SR, please click here to visit our sympathy store.To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.