Warren “Keith” Harris, age 76, of the Green Mountain community, passed away peacefully at home on Wednesday, August 20th, 2025 after a brief but courageous battle with cancer. He was born on April 27th, 1949 in Spruce Pine, NC. He is preceded in death by his parents, Cecil and Paulette Harris; and a sister, Betty Harris.
Keith was a man whose life was defined by hard work, integrity and devotion to those he loved. He built his life on the values of perseverance and responsibility, lessons he faithfully passed down to his children and grandchildren.
Keith worked tirelessly throughout his career as a project manager/grading supervisor for Young & McQueen Grading Company, never shying away from long days or tough jobs. He also served as a volunteer fireman at Clearmont Fire Department for 20 years, where he served as Fire Chief for 5 of those years. Keith believed that a strong work ethic was the foundation of a meaningful life, and he led by example every single day. Outside of work he cherished time with his family. Whether it was sharing stories around the table, lending a helping hand or teaching the importance of dedication and honesty; Keith left an enduring legacy of strength, love and resilience.
Left to cherish his memory is his loving wife of 51 years, Lavonne Robinson Harris; daughters: April Owenby (Chuck) and Beth Greene (Terry); the light of his later life was his grandchildren: Marlee & Pyper Owenby, Kylie, Bailey and Asher Greene; and a sister, Karen Shaw.
A memorial service to honor Keith will be held at 1 p.m. on Saturday, September 6th, in the Chapel of Yancey Funeral Services. The family will greet friends and loved ones after the service, until that time the family will be gathering at the home. Friends and loved ones are invited to join and celebrate the life of a man who worked hard, loved deeply and shaped his family’s future through his example.
The family would also like to extend their heartfelt appreciation to the nurses and staff of Compassionate Care WNC for the amazing care they provided to Keith.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Compassionate Care WNC, at 856 Gorges Fork Rd., Burnsville, NC 28714. To send online condolences, please visit our website at www.yanceyfuneralservice.com.
