Obituary of Robert Anthony Harris

Age 66, of Elmira, NY, passed away Monday, August 5, 2024. Bobby was born January 15, 1958 in Albany, NY, the son of the late Lawrence and Pearl (Brown) Harris. He is also predeceased by Tina Lynch Porter who he shared a personal bond with. He is survived by his son, Sidron (Stacy) Johnson of Tolono IL; with their children: sons, Dustin Williams of Sadorus, IL; Bryson Gray of Tolono, IL; daughters, Briana McFarland of Urbana, IL; Brianna Markmueller of Florissant, MO; Desiree Bond of Tolono, IL; 1 granddaughter, 4 grandsons and 1 deceased grandson; sisters, Tami D. Harris of Elmira, NY with son, Mark Anthony Edney Sr. of Columbia, SC; with his children Mark Anthony Edney Jr., Isaiah Wayne Edney, daughter, Rhiana Edney and his granddaughter, Lila Marie Edney; Pamela Harris of Catonsville, MD; Lisa Ann Adams and family of Elmira NY; Chelsea Watkins who he affectionately called baby sis, with her mom Angela Harris who he affectionately called mom, of Elmira NY; Families of the heart Ricky Paul, and Sandy, Eddy, Ja-lyn Brown of Elmira NY; special friends, Brooklynn Seymour of Elmira, NY; with her sons who looked forward to spending afternoons with their "Uncle" who guided them with teachings of life experiences; and Julie Bailey of Elmira, NY; who he was always great help to. There was nothing more important to Bobby than family. He is the eldest of Mattie Lou Brown and Gordon Brown's 14 grandchildren who were cousins who grew up as close as sisters and brothers. He was our protector, our cheerleader, our educator, and our mentor who always had an encouraging word for every situation. Bobby's greatest joy in life was being with family and friends. He loved sports, he was an avid reader and a respecter of black history and history in general. In honor of his wishes, there will be a celebration of life for family and close friends August 31, 2024 from 2-5pm at the Queen City Elks Lodge, 726 Benjamin Street, Elmira NY 14901. Walter J. Kent Funeral Home is assisting the family.