Wayne Harris

Services are currently pending

Wayne Harris passed away peacefully on February 21, 2025 at the age of 63, in his hometown of Water Valley, Mississippi.

As a child, Wayne loved farming, gardening, hunting, fishing, and everything outdoors. Though he never mentioned his accolades, he was a tremendous athlete who received the prestigious Jacob's Blocking Trophy multiple times, and gained notoriety as an All-SEC and All-American offensive guard for Mississippi State from 1979-1982. He went on to play football professionally.

Wayne met the love of his life, Cheryl Odom, in elementary school in 1969 when her family moved to Water Valley with the railroad. They began their 45-year marriage in 1979. After football, Wayne began banking in Water Valley where he worked at Mechanics, Sunburst, Union Planters, and Regions Banks. He renewed his love for farming when he began banking in Grenada and Greenwood helping delta farmers through State Bank and Bank Plus. He remained with Bank Plus as the Senior Vice President / Director of Agricultural Lending.

Above all, Wayne adored his family. He is survived by his mother Jerleen Harris of Water Valley, MS and his wife Cheryl. He and Cheryl have three boys Ashley (Jennifer Gollott) of Collierville, TN, and his twins Danny (Ashley Aron) of Evans, GA and Larry (Maggie Fountain) of Washington, DC. They have five grandchildren: Kenzie (14), Gavyn (11), Ella (10), Hannah (6), and Emmie (3).

In accordance with his wishes, Wayne will be honored with a small memorial ceremony and private interment this Spring, at a date to be determined.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the Gary Sinise Foundation whose mission is to serve the nation through honoring our defenders, veterans, first responders, and their families. Donations can be made online at: garysinisefoundation.org/give or via mail at:

Gary Sinise Foundation

PO Box 40726

Nashville, TN 37204

Please make checks payable to Gary Sinise Foundation.