John B. Harris

John B. Harris, 80, passed away peacefully on March 4, 2026, at Mercy Hospital in Rockville Centre, New York. Born on August 27, 1945, in Ridge Springs, South Carolina, to Louise and George Harris, Sr., he was one of four siblings, including Lillie Mae, and was predeceased by his brother George Harris, Jr. and sister Betty Harris. He later made Hempstead, New York, his home for the rest of his life.

Educated in the Hempstead school system, John excelled in sports and competition. As a young man he participated in lacrosse, football, basketball, and wrestling, becoming New York State Champion in 1963 and 1964. His sportsmanship forged lasting friendships and memories that remained with him throughout his life. A hardworking and dedicated man, he spent many years with Dobbs House International before continuing his career with the Hempstead Public Schools, where he formed countless connections and friendships within the community he loved.

Affectionately known as Johnnie B, he will be remembered for his warm heart, generous spirit, and quick sense of humor that could brighten anyone’s day. He was the kind of man who instinctively lent a hand, offered advice, or showed up when someone needed help. Helping others was simply who he was.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Kristin Harris, and his loving daughter, Nicole Harris, who were the center of his world. He is also survived by his sister Lillie Mae Jones, step-sister Lorna Matthews, sisters-in-law Sandra Harris, Soffia Whitman, and Denise Jenks, three special family members Polly Bates, Dessie Smith, and Major Christia, as well as a host of nieces, nephews, relatives, and faithful friends. To know John was to know kindness, laughter, and loyalty. His presence will be deeply missed, yet the memories he created, the laughter he shared, and the love he gave will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.