Rev. Carl B. Harris

The Reverend Carl B. Harris passed away on Monday, July 5, 2021, at the age of 91. A native Baltimorean, Carl was born on October 20, 1929, to Helen and Alfred Harris. He is survived by his wife, Tomolyn (Tomi), his son, Daniel, his daughter, Tracy (Sherrod), three grandchildren, Carli, Wesley, and Brandon, as well as two sisters-in-law, a brother-in-law, and many nieces, nephews, and friends.

After graduating from Muhlenberg College in 1952, Carl attended General Theological Seminary, completing his studies in 1956. He was ordained Deacon on September 29,1956, at St. Bartholomew’s Church, Ten Hills, Baltimore (his childhood parish) by Bishop Harry Lee Doll. Carl was assigned as a curate to St. Anne’s in Annapolis in 1956 and was ordained to the priesthood by Bishop Noble C. Powell on July 20, 1957. He then served at St. Andrew the Fisherman in Mayo for 9 years, returned to St. Anne’s for 4 years, and, in 1971 he became the rector of St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church in Crownsville, where he served for 25 years. In 1994, Carl was honored by the Diocese with the Bishop’s Award for Distinguished Ministry in the Church. After retiring in 1996, Carl served as the assistant priest at the Church of the Ascension in Westminster until 1999. Always willing to pitch in when needed, Carl continued to assist with services at Epiphany Church, Odenton, which was his home parish at the time of his death.

Carl faithfully served his parishes and the surrounding communities with grace, patience, and humor. He was a people person who knew how to make others feel at ease. He always had an old story to tell or a corny joke to share… sometimes both! He loved spending time outside and was always on the lookout for a sunny day with a stiff breeze which provided the opportunity for a relaxing sail on the Chesapeake Bay. He also enjoyed frequent visits to Chick and Ruth’s Deli (long before it was featured on the Food Network)! Carl touched countless lives with his charm, compassion, and kindness. He will be dearly missed by those who knew him.

A funeral service* will be held at St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church on Saturday, July 10, 2021, at 11:00 AM, with a reception to follow. Friends are invited to visit with the family at the church prior to the service, from 9:30-10:30. *Please note that masks will be required during the service.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church (Crownsville) or Epiphany Episcopal Church (Odenton).  

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