Dr. John D. Harris, 86, of Palmer, MA, passed away and went to be with the Lord on Friday, July 31 2026. Son of the late H. Lee and Ella (Ogle) Harris, he was born in Richlands, VA on April 2, 1946. A graduate of Bristol, TN High School, he earned B.S. from the University of Tennessee and his doctorate from Southern College of Optometry. A respected Optometrist, he practiced for over 60 years in the greater Springfield area. He was a devout Christian and a founding member of Pilgrim Baptist Church in North Brookfield.
John is survived by his children John Harris II; Todd Harris (Carrie) and Kimberly Murray (John); his twin brother Jim Harris (Sylvia) and his brother William Harris (Jena). He also leaves numerous, great-grandchildren and a great-great-grandchild, as well as nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his siblings Thomas, David and Peggy.
Visiting hours for John will be Monday, August 10, 2026 from 10:00-11:00 AM in Pilgrim Baptist Church, 33 West Brookfield Road, North Brookfield, MA. A funeral service will follow at 11:00 AM. Burial will be in East Wilbraham Cemetery, 3244 Boston Road, Wilbraham, MA.
Date: Monday, August 10, 2026
Time: 10:00 am - 11:00 am
Date: Monday, August 10, 2026
Time: 11:00 am
Date: Monday, August 10, 2026
Time: 1:00 pm
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Our sincere condolences.
The staff of Kapinos-Mazur Funeral Home.
So incredibly sorry for your loss. Dr. Harris was a wonderful person and optometrist. I looked forward to our annual discussions about Sunday School during my routine eye exam. There are so few people who STILL BELIEVE and are not afraid to tell the world. He was indeed a fellow disciple. May you find comfort in the warm memories of him.
Johnny was so much like an older brother to my brother Cliff and me. We loved it when he came to stay with our family in Richmond. He and our daddy (Tom) were so close and Johnny was so loving to daddy and momma (Willie). We miss him and are praying that his family is comforted in the truth that Johnny is at peace in the arms of our great God. Love, LeeLee (Lee Harris Baldwin)
Sorry for your loss. Condolences and prayers.
Dr.John or Doc as we all knew him was a true friend and a true servant of the Lord. He was a great help to my family in a time of need. I know that he now rejoices in heaven ."I know that my redeemer liveth!"
My prayers are with you and your family🙏🏼
I have many fond memories of Johnny and the whole Harris clan. I often reflect on how blessed we all are to be surrounded by such GOOD God loving souls. Rest in Peace Uncle Johnny. Cliff
Kapinos-Mazur Funeral Home
Our sincere condolences.
The staff of Kapinos-Mazur Funeral Home.