Walter Eugene Harris, 75, of Etowah, TN, passed away Sunday evening at Life Care Center of Athens, TN. He was the son of the late Bolen Harris and Juanita Bell.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Ana R. Harris of Quebradillas, Puerto Rico; mother, Juanita Bell; father, Bolen Harris; stepfather, Carl Bell.

Survivors include his beloved grandson, Matthew Crabtree of Athens, TN; beloved daughter, Kyra Smithers and husband, Ronnie of Etowah, TN, and grandson Braxton Smithers; loving Aunt Kathy and Uncle Bob McKay of Waco, TX; longtime partner Phyllis Wilson of Athens, TN; and many cousins.

Walt enjoyed life to the fullest. You could find him on a typical day eating breakfast or lunch at Shelby's, Tom Thumb Diner, and the Farmhouse in Etowah and most likely telling a joke or two. If you were in talking distance of Walt, you were bound to hear a joke. He was a barber for more than 40 years and enjoyed cutting every single head of hair. He was very active in his local Masonic Lodge in Etowah as well. Walt never met a stranger and was always eager to strike up a conversation with anyone and everyone. The family would like to thank the staff on 12 East at UT Medical Center, the loving staff at Internal Medicine Associates, the caring staff at Life Care Center of Athens, and all the close friends who stopped by and showed their love and support.

Masonic service will be held at 6:00 p.m., Wednesday, September 18th, in the chapel of Bordwine Funeral Home. Funeral service to follow with Dr. Craig Riley and County Mayor John Gentry officiating. The family will receive friends from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m. Wednesday prior to the service. Family and friends will assemble at 9:00 a.m., Thursday, September 19th at the funeral home and proceed to Green Hill Cemetery for the 10:00 a.m. committal service.

Pallbearers include Scott Seaton, Ronnie Raper, Michael Standridge, Tom Strickland, David Seaton, and Quay Loveday.

Honorary Pallbearers include Ray Priest, Bill Gentry, Benny Bivens, Nicholas (King Fish) Raper, Joe Fultz, and Jack Padgett.