Joseph Wayne Harris

Joseph Wayne Harris, 64, of Monroe, North Carolina, passed away peacefully on September 3, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. Born on February 21, 1961, in Pensacola, Florida, Joe lived a full and adventurous life-one defined by deep devotion to his family, service to his country, and a lifelong pursuit of connection, joy, and hard work.

Joe proudly served in the United States Marine Corps, where his time in uniform took him around the world and helped shape the resilient, thoughtful man so many came to admire. He later traveled extensively while working as an international export manager for Yale Security Locks, but his real calling was found in the world of car sales and management-a field where his natural talent, integrity, and quiet charisma truly shined.

For many years, Joe worked at Griffin Motor Company, where he not only found professional success, but also forged close bonds with coworkers he considered his extended family. His dedication, leadership, and quiet sense of humor made him a cornerstone of the dealership and a mentor to many. He was also a longtime member of First Baptist Church of Monroe, where he found both community and joy. Joe cherished attending services, watching his family grow in faith, and taking part in countless activities-from handbell choir to mission trips-where he formed lifelong friendships and lasting memories.

Although Joe appeared quiet, observant, and reserved-with his signature knowing raised brow, clean-cut appearance, sharp suits, and ever-present sunglasses which often made people wonder if he was secretly in the FBI-those who knew him well saw a man who was deeply artistic, musical, and full of life. He loved to sing to his daughters, often humming melodies around the house, and was always up for a dance. Joe had an adventurous spirit and never shied away from a thrill. He loved skydiving, roller coasters, jet skis, boating, and especially riding motorcycles with Denice. He also loved slower paced activities like deep sea fishing and camping. Whether on land, sea, or in the air, he embraced life with courage, curiosity, and excitement. He would eat just about anything (and had in his travels around the world) but had a special love for seafood and Southern food. He found great joy in preparing, cooking and sharing food with the people he loved.

He is survived by his loving wife of 37 years, Denice Harris, whom he met at the T & W Flea Market in Pensacola, Florida, a chance meeting that turned into a beautiful life together. Joe was a devoted father to his daughters Stephanie Marzec (David), Ashton Connelly (James), and Whitney Greig (Colin), and he was preceded in death by his beloved daughter, Lindsay Harris. He was a proud grandfather to Murray Blair, Scarlett Marzec, Nicole Blair, Sven Marzec, and Angus Greig. He is also survived by his sisters Debbie Gillfilian (Bubba) and Cindy Furr, his sister-in-law Michelle Harris, and many beloved nieces and nephews.

Joe now rejoins his daughter Lindsay, his parents Marilyn and Ray Harris, and his brother Eddy Harris Sr in eternal peace. He will be remembered not only for his steady presence and remarkable stories, but for his deep love of family, his dry wit, and the way he made people feel seen, supported, and safe. His legacy lives on in the lives he touched-both near and far-and he will be dearly missed.

A funeral service will be held at 3:00PM on Thursday, September 11, 2025, at First Baptist Church of Monroe, 109 W. Morrow Ave, Monroe, NC 28112.

The family will receive friends from 6:00PM until 8:00PM on Wednesday, September 10, 2025, at Gordon Funeral Service and Crematory, 1904 Lancaster Ave, Monroe, NC 28112.

In lieu of flowers, the family request memorials be made to First Baptist Church of Monroe, 109 W. Morrow Ave, Monroe, NC 28112 and to the Glioblastoma Research Organization at https://www.gbmresearch.org

Online condolences may be made at www.gordonfuneralservice.com

Gordon Funeral Service and Crematory, 1904 Lancaster Ave, Monroe, NC 28112 is honored to be entrusted to care for the Harris Family.