Charles Ray Harris

Ray Harris, devoted husband, father, grandfather and friend, transitioned from this life on Friday, October 3, 2019 at his residence. He is survived by his wife Cathy Harris, who affectionately referred to him as “husband extraordinaire,” four loving children: Monique Harris, Ahmad Raymond Harris, Lori Granito and Tavia Coleman and his niece Melody Dauphin who he considered a daughter. Ray took delight in his grandchildren: Marcel Harris, Gregory Dase Jr., Nia Granito, Tracy Dawson and Rickshall Dase and seven great grandchildren, Mariyah Harris, Marcel Harris Jr, Parker Dase, Tierra Mitchell, Terrial Perry, Davin Dase, D’Michael Allen. Ray leaves behind three brothers in law, Albert Davis, William Davis, and Gerald Hughes Davis, and a host of nieces, nephews, and life long friends. Ray was born on July 19, 1939 in Bay Springs, MS to Emma and Henry Oscar Harris. He spent the majority of his adult life as a New Orleans resident. Ray was employed at Kaiser Aluminum, had a transportation service, and later operated a consulting business with his wife. Familiar with the plight of underprivileged children, Ray received accolades for his community work through the non profit Each One Save One. Ray was featured on the CBS national news for his work as the coordinator of the Just For Boys program, later called Just For Kids at Vorice Waters Elementary School, positively impacting hundreds of young lives. He was involved with the inception of the program in 1991. He arranged field trips and other learning opportunities to the children, providing mentoring with an emphasis on tutoring. Ray was an active member of his church group, the Resurrection Association of Men (RAMS) , and the Knights of Columbus. Ray was an avid fisherman and Saints fan. Ray made friends easily, opening his home and heart to all. He looked forward to hosting his friends at his annual New Year’s eve party. A memorial celebration of Ray’s life will be held on Tuesday, October 8, 2019 at Resurrection of Our Lord Catholic Church, 9701 Hammond St. New Orleans, LA 70127. Visitation will be from 9:00 am to 11:00 am with a funeral mass at 11:00 am. The repass will immediately follow at the church. Arrangements by D. W. Rhodes Funeral Home, 3933 Washington Ave.