Hugh Townsend Harris, 86, passed away Saturday, November 11, 2023, at Johnston-Willis Hospital, Richmond, after battling a rapidly spreading cancer. He was born in Cincinnati, Ohio, on March 20, 1937, to the late Hubert Earl and Mary Townsend Harris. The Harris family relocated to Keezletown, VA, in 1950. Hugh graduated from Montevideo High School, Bridgewater College, and Wesley Theological Seminary. Between high school and college Hugh served three years in the US Army.
During his pastoral ministry Hugh served Keezletown (his home church), Blue Ridge-Keezletown Charge, Rectortown Charge, Assoc. Franconia, Colonial Beach, Bethany (Gloucester Point), Asbury (Newport News), Rustburg, Mechanicsville, Belmont (Richmond), Deep Creek, Central (Staunton), Ramsey Memorial; and in retirement he served Willis (Richmond) and South Halifax. He also served as Assistant Administrator for the Hermitage of Northern Virginia from 1976-1979.
He was also known as an accomplished artist and author. He published five books, including one that he co-wrote with his late wife Sharon Harris. Hugh is survived by his wife of 2 years, Nancy; his brother, Rev. Jim Harris (Debbie); his children, Diane Spencer and Chuck Harris (Felicia), and his stepchildren, Brent Logan (Michelle), Mark Logan (Stacie), Dean Mitchell and Corey Mitchell (Jenny); plus numerous grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces, nephews and cousins near and far. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his sister, Merle Diehr, his brother, Paul Harris, and first wife, Gerry, and second wife, Sharon.
A memorial service will be held at 3 p.m. on Saturday, November 18, at St. Marks United Methodist Church, 11551 Lucks Lane, Midlothian, VA, with a reception following the service. A private committal service will be held at a later time. In lieu of flowers, you are invited to make a memorial donation to St. Mark’s United Methodist Church.
