Gerald T. Harris was born on April 2, 1958 in East St. Louis, Illinois to the parents of Marion Harris Sr. and Jodie D. (Richardson) Harris, the seventh of nine children. He was preceded in death by his parents, brothers, Melvin, Naccoma, Phillip; sister Diane E. Harris; and nephew, Antonio Little.

He confessed a belief in Christ at an early age and was baptized at Macedonia Baptist Church under the pastorate of Rev. Norman Owens Sr. where he attended Sunday school classes and church regularly.

Gerald began his education in School District #189, in East St. Louis, IL and was selected to participate with the Upward Bound Higher Education Program completing his last two years of high school at Southern Illinois University, graduating in 1976 from Lincoln Senior High School. He was active in sports throughout his life and in high school he participated in track and field as a sprinter and a relay team member, winning several trophies.

He continued his education at Southern Illinois University for the next two years majoring in Business. Gerald started working a summer job at First Financial Bank as a Records Specialist, then as a Computer Clerk, and later as an Account Service Specialist, which turned into a twelve-year career. He worked in several other careers that allowed him to work with people, which he enjoyed the most. Gerald recently worked for Southwestern Illinois College Senior Program as a Senior Companion.

Gerald was an active member at Macedonia Church serving on the Culinary Committee, and most recently due to the pandemic was assisting with the E- Learning program at the church, serving hot meals and various other responsibilities at the church facility.

He was also an active Charter Member of the Orr Weathers Family Reunion held annually. Gerald always assisted with local and statewide elections along with his Mentor, the late Eddie L. Jackson Sr., past State Representative of Illinois.

Gerald loved to be with family and friends; he loved to be on the scene just being GERALD!

He leaves to cherish his memory: one son ~ Geranymo J. Hart-Harris; three sisters ~ Doretha Harris, Marian Henrietta Harris and Mary L. (Johnnie) Spencer all of the local area; one brother ~ Marion Jr. (Peggy) Harris of Atlanta, GA; nieces, nephews, many cousins, and a host of supportive friends.