Rev. Harlen Ray Harris

Rev. Harlen Ray Harris, 80, of Clanton, Alabama, passed away on November 18, 2024, at UAB Hospital, following a tragic accident on I-65 in Birmingham. Harlen was born on August 25, 1944, in Jasper, Alabama, to Herman and Stella Harris. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, pastor, and craftsman who touched countless lives with his faith and love for others.

Harlen's life journey began at the young age of 18 when he married the love of his life, Mary Moore, who was just 16 at the time, on April 13, 1963. Together, they built a loving family and a shared life dedicated to serving others. In his early years, Harlen worked as a carpenter, but his calling to serve in ministry became clear in 1971. By 1974, he began preaching for the Church of God, pastoring seven churches throughout Alabama during his long and impactful ministry. Even after retiring in 2011, Harlen continued to serve, temporarily pastoring eight additional churches. He studied theology at Lee University, where he deepened his commitment to his faith and to helping others grow in their relationship with God.

In addition to his pastoral work, Harlen was a gifted woodworker. He crafted elaborate birdhouses that showcased his artistic talent, and his work earned him several state and national senior adult talent competition awards.

Harlen was known to all who knew him as a man who truly loved God, his family, the Church of God, and people in general. His warm heart and sincere care for others left a lasting impression on those whose lives he touched. He was a man of great faith, humility, and integrity, who dedicated his life to spreading the message of Christ and helping others in their spiritual journeys.

He is survived by his loving wife, Mary; daughters, Nancy (Paul) Wilson, Holly (Phillip) Porter; son-in-law, Jerry Hays; grandson, Jeremy (Anna) Hays; granddaughters, Marissa (John) Norton, Marybeth Porter, Makiley Porter; great grandson, Jenson Norton; sister, Glenda Nix, and a host of friends and family. He was preceded in death by his parents, Herman and Stella Harris; his daughter, Melissa Hays; siblings Odis Ray Harris, Donald Harris, Jerry Wayne Harris, and Vivian Aaron.

Harlen's legacy of faith, love, and service will live on in the hearts of his family, friends, and the many people whose lives he touched through his ministry and acts of kindness.

A celebration of Harlen's life will be held on November 23 at Clanton Church of God in Clanton, Alabama at 4 PM, with visitation preceding the service from 2 to 4 PM. A graveside service will be held at Mt. Zion Baptist Church, 115 Mount Zion Road, Jasper, Alabama at 12:30 PM on Sunday, November 24.

Martin Funeral Home of Clanton directing.