Curtis Leon Harris was born on July 14, 1953 , in St. Louis, Missouri to the union of Reverend James Harris Sr., and Cassie Mae Harris. He was preceded in death by his parents, four brothers, Michael L. Harris, James Harris, Jr., James P. Harris Sr., and Kenneth R. Harris; one sister, Deborah D. Harris; his son, Curtis L. Harris, Jr., and daughter, Ciara L. Harris.

Curtis was born and raised in a Christian household and confessed his life to Christ at an early age. He was baptized and united with the St. Matthew Baptist Church in E. St. Louis, IL under the leadership of A. L. Jackson. Prior to moving to E. St. Louis, Curtis and his family lived on a small farm in Highland, IL where he learned the importance of developing a strong work ethic. Prior to relocating Curtis was a lifelong resident of the metro east area attending school in District #189 and graduating from Lincoln Senior High School.

Curtis united in Holy Matrimony with Linda Delk of East St. Louis, IL. He was honorably discharged from the U.S. Army, and began a multi-career, employment journey with Granite City Steel, Monsanto Chemical CO., and retired from General Motors. Curtis was blessed with seven daughters and 12 grandchildren, who affectionately called him "Paw-Paw." He loved celebrating family events. He was the life of the party at birthday and holiday gatherings. He always attended his children and grandchildren's sports activities and special occasions.

Curtis was an avid storyteller with a comedic perspective. He enjoyed sharing his life experiences as well as his knowledge and wisdom with family, friends, and anyone with a listening ear. He never met a stranger. From an early age he had an entrepreneurial spirit: selling newspapers, home repairs and remodeling, landscaping and gardening and a God-given talent to visually repair almost anything. He was excited to read and discuss the Word of God.

Curtis departed this life on January 30, 2022.

He leaves to cherish the memory: his loving wife, Linda Harris; children, Kimberly Delk of Fairview Heights, IL, Tia (Kenneth) Smith of Belleville, IL, Vonetta Harris of O'Fallon, IL, Chelsey L. Harris of Swansea, IL, Astrid (Ardez) Johnson of Belleville, IL, and Sidney Johnson of Belleville, IL; his brothers, Anthony Harris of Swansea, IL, Keith (Helen) Harris of Belleville, IL, and Joseph Harris of Belleville, IL; sisters, Kay Morris of Centreville, IL; brothers-in-law, and sisters-in-law; 12 grandchildren, and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives, and friends.