Gail Blount Harris

Deacon Gail Blount Harris, 72, of Leland, NC, formerly of Smithfield VA, entered eternal rest on November 20, 2025 surrounded by her loving family and friends. Gail was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt and friend. She cherished her role as Nanny to all her grands and was affectionately called Momma Gail by many. Gail lived a life centered on faith, family and service to others.

Born on March 7, 1953 to the late Joseph Blount and Virginia Blount. Gail was the 12th of 15 children. Gail’s life was one of compassion, strength and spiritual devotion. She married the love of her life, John “Bubba Lou” Harris Sr., January 24, 1970 with whom she built a family grounded in love, faith and laughter.

Gail will be remembered for her unwavering commitment to God. Gail joined Union Bethel A.M.E. Church at an early age. As an adult she became a member of Emmanuel Baptist Church where she was a member of the Mass, Gospel and Senior Choirs as well as the Pastor Aid Committee. After relocating to Leland, NC she joined New Vision of Faith Missionary Baptist Church where she was ordained as a Deacon. She was very active in her church by heading Christian Education, being a member of the Praise Team, Hospitality Team, and Pastor’s Aid Team. She also taught bible study classes at the Leland Senior Center.

Gail’s other joy was beautifying her home. She could often be seen making her way around her home and yard taking care of and planting flowers. For her, there was always something that needed to be done. When she finished working, she would turn her attention to her coloring, painting and of course, bible study.

Gail was preceded in death by both of her parents, and siblings, James Burnell Pleasants, William "Dee" Pleasants, Joseph "Joe Boy" Blount, Gloria Spratley, Edna Whiting and Eunice Sparrow; Brother in Laws, Morris Hall, Clarence Perry and Sherman “Duke” Harris.

Gail leaves to cherish her memory her husband, Deacon John Harris Sr.; two daughters, Shawn H. Atkins (Ricky), Dawn M. Perry (Desmond); two sons, John L. Harris Jr. (Tyiesha), Donald Turner; seven grandchildren, Dijuan Picott, Desmond Perry Jr., Chyanna Turner, Demond Perry, Deshawn Perry, Joshua Harris, Paige Turner; four brothers, George Blount, Frank Blount(Gwen), Wayne Blount (Uvonne) and John Blount (Toni); four sisters, Shealler Perry, Louise Fauntleroy (George), Andria Hall, and Margaret Davis; two sister in laws, Linda Jones and Alice Jones and an abundance of loving nieces, nephews, cousins and special friends.

Gail is safe in the arms of her Lord and Savior and ready to move into her heavenly mansion!!

All initial services will be held in Smithfield, Va.  On Friday, November 28, 2025, viewing will take place from 3-6 pm with Reflections from 4:30-6 pm at Shivers Funeral Chapel, 12749 Courthouse Highway, Smithfield, VA  23430. At 12:00 p.m. on Saturday, November 29, 2025, a Celebration of Life will be held at Emmanuel Baptist Church, 11150 Emanuel Church Road, Smithfield, VA 23430. Interment will follow the service in Emmanuel Baptist Church Cemetery. A memorial will be held in Leland, NC at a later date. 

Please keep the Blount and Harris family in your prayers.