Sheriff Joe Harris

Joe Harris Sr., 88, of Waynesboro, passed away peacefully on May 8, 2025, surrounded by his family. Joe was born in Stuarts Draft on March 6th 1937, son of the late Warren Alexander Harris and Gladys Mae Tisdale Harris.

He is preceded in death by his parents, 3 brothers, 2 sisters, and his beloved daughter Patty “Peanut” Stephenson. He is survived by his wife Ellen, sister Joan Painter, children Joe Harris Jr. (wife Crystal), Bobby Ann Harris, Tony Wade Harris, Larra Dileen Koiner (husband Mark), Joey Harris Warren (husband Alan), and son-in-law Gary Stephenson. Grandchildren Josh Harris (wife Tiffany), Michael Stephenson, Daniel Stephenson (wife Jessica), Kevin Stephenson (wife Kandace), Lindsey Wallace (husband Eddie), Darren Hemp (wife Heather), Kasie Houff (husband Jordan), Samantha Snell, Cody Snell, and Ashlie Koiner, and 17 great-grand-children, whom he loved so dearly.

On August 11th 1956, Joe married the love of his life Ellen Marie. He served as a heavy equipment mechanic in the Air Force for 4 years before moving back to Augusta County, Virginia. He joined the Waynesboro Police Department as a police officer in 1960. He became a Deputy Sheriff in 1963 and continued that role until becoming Sheriff of the City of Waynesboro in 1974. He served his community until retiring on August 1, 2000. During his career he obtained an Associate’s Degree in Police Science from Blue Ridge Community College. He initiated the Virginia Sheriff’s Boys Ranch in Augusta county to help support inner city youth. He assisted in establishing the Preston L. Yancey Fire Department in Fishersville. He was admired by his many colleagues and community members throughout his years of service and beyond.

Joe’s primary joy in life was his wife Ellen and the family they have raised together. He enjoyed hunting, camping, playing music, and building things. He loved history, animals, playing pranks, and telling jokes. He was joyous and faithful, loving the Lord.

In the words of Joe himself “God, our children, my wife, and fellowship” is what life meant to him.

Family will receive friends at Charlton and Groome Funeral Home in Fishersville on Monday May 12, 2025 from 3:00-4:00 PM. Celebration of Life will be held in the same location from 4:00-5:00PM, officiated by Reverend Gwen Carr.

Family would like to thank Hospice of the Shenandoah and the Shenandoah House staff for all of their support and loving care. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to Hospice of the Shenandoah.

Share memories and condolences at www.charltonandgroomefuneralhome.com.