Rev. Gerald E. Harris

Rev. Gerald E Harris went to be with his Lord and Savior on July 30, 2026. 

He was born in Ilion on October 7, 1950, to Edwin and Laura (Bahr) Harris. He graduated from Ilion High School and Roberts Wesleyan College. On October 11, 1975, he was united in marriage with Mary Jan Hardy. They were blessed with four children. He deeply mourned the passing of his daughter, Jennifer, on April 30, 2020.

For over 30 years, Gerry was pastor of the Nazarene Church in Utica, and later Clark Mills. One of his greatest joys was seeing people come to an understanding of God's love and His Word. It gives the family great comfort to know that he is now with Jesus and Jennifer.

Besides his daughter, Gerald was predeceased by his parents, his in-laws, William and Emily Hardy, his niece, Trisha Evans, his stepmother, Esther, his brother-in-law, William Hardy, and a very special aunt and uncle, Charles and Margaret Champagne.

 Gerry will be dearly missed by his wife, Jan, his daughters, Barbara Fish and Stephanie Wojik (Joseph); and his son, Philip (Susan). He very much enjoyed his grandchildren, Abigail, Angela, Edwin, Scottia, Celia, and a "bonus" granddaughter, Haidyn, who was his running buddy. He is also survived by his sister, Janet Evans (Dennis); brothers Kenneth and Scott Anthony (Melissa); nephew Gary, niece Stacy, and stepbrothers, Brian and Tim Humphrey. He also leaves behind his wife's family who he loved.

The family would like to express appreciation to Doctor Kachare for 23 years of excellent care and support. A special acknowledgement must be made to the staff at Valley Health Services, especially One West. The kindness and compassion shown from the administration, the nursing staff, and even maintenance, will always be remembered.

Relatives and friends are invited to calling hours on Saturday August 8, 2026, from 9:30am-11:00am at the Enea, Ciaccia & Applegate Funeral Home, 4309 Acme Rd., Ilion, NY 13357. A graveside service will take place on Wednesday, August 12, 2026, at 10:00am at Calvary Cemetery in Herkimer where his earthly remains will be laid to rest. 

Gerry and his family are under the care of the Enea, Ciaccia & Applegate Funeral Directors, 4309 Acme Rd, Ilion, NY 13357. 315-894-8000.

His obituary may be viewed online at www.eneafamily.com