Obituary of Sylvester Patton Harris

Sylvester Patton Harris, Jr. (S.P.) passed away peacefully May 4, 2013 at Holston Valley Medical Center. S.P. was born on the family farm in Alley Valley, Virginia on October 11, 1927. From a young age he worked alongside his father in the fields learning every aspect of farming. After his graduation from Shoemaker High School in May of 1944 he joined the United States Army and served two years in Occupied Japan where he managed the Postal Exchange. Upon completion of his service to the country, he took agricultural courses and returned to the family farm. He selflessly tended the needs of his aging parents up until their deaths. S.P. was known throughout the region as a very successful farmer. He set records for crop yields, cared for all the livestock and shared his vast knowledge with other farmers in the area. There were many people who benefited from his generosity. He truly loved all of the animals and called his cows by name. He delivered calves when needed and occasionally brought one into his house for care. His deep love and reverence for the land was evident to all who knew him. At the end of the day he would often pull out a lawn chair, sit in front of the family home and gaze over the land as his cattle called in the distance. He retired from full time farming in 2009. The love of land and animals were S.P.'s passion and legacy. S.P. was preceded in death by his father, S.P. Harris Sr., his mother, Myrtle Webb Harris, his sisters, Jamie Harris White and Audrey Harris Jones. He is survived by his brother, Harry Harris and seven nieces and nephews. A graveside service will be conducted at 1pm Thursday May 9th, 2013 at the Harris Family Cemetery. The entrance to the cemetery is across from 2106 Starnes Bluff Rd., Ft. Blackmore, VA. Those attending are the graveside are asked to meet at the cemetery by 12:50 pm. Following the graveside service, a family gathering will be held at the farm. Carter-Trent/ Scott County Funeral Home is serving the family of S.P. Harris.