Judge Ondray M. Harris Sr. passed away on November 19, 2025, while enjoying one of his favorite activities: fishing with friends. Harris, a well-respected figure in the Meridian community, dedicated his life to public service, coaching youth sports, and uplifting those around him. His legacy is marked by compassion, leadership, and unwavering commitment to justice.
A lifelong resident of Meridian, Harris was celebrated not only for his professional accomplishments but also for his love of family and community. He is fondly remembered for coaching children in baseball at Magnolia Baseball Park, as well as his keen interest in biking and walking. Mayor Percy Bland emphasized Harris’s contributions, stating, “Judge Harris served this community with distinction. His steady leadership, integrity, and commitment to justice made a lasting impact on the people he served.”
Harris graduated from Meridian High School in 1978 and pursued further education at Jackson State University before transferring to East Mississippi Community College. In 1979, he married his high school sweetheart, Rosette Harris, with whom he had four children: Donsha, Ondray Jr., Ashley, and Xavier. After Rosette’s passing in 2014, he married Brenda Helen-Harris in 2019, with whom he raised two more sons, Jarrod and Jamal.
Harris began his public service career in 1987 with the Meridian Police Department, soon moving to the Lauderdale County Sheriff’s Department and serving as a police officer and assistant chief in Marion. His significant achievement came in 1992, when he became the first black Constable for District 2, a role he held for 25 years, completing six elected terms. That same year, he was appointed as a Justice Court Judge, a position he maintained until his passing.
Judge Paul Earley, a close friend and colleague, shared memories of their friendship, highlighting Harris’s mentorship during his own judicial training. Earley recounted a special moment when Harris asked him to officiate his marriage to Brenda, saying, “I was overwhelmingly honored… He always spoke highly of his family. He was so proud of them.” Earley reflected on how Harris provided comfort and support to others, particularly during difficult times.
Beyond his judicial responsibilities, Harris served as both assistant pastor and pastor at Lively Stone Fellowship Church for nearly three decades, later becoming the pastor at New Olive Baptist Church until his death. Patricia Allen, who had her wedding officiated by Harris, praised his supportive nature, recalling how he would often pray for her during challenging times and encourage her to pursue her education.
Monty Patton, a community member, described Harris’s influence on local youth, stating, “He was a father figure to us kids growing up on Redline. A lot of us did not have dads, so he and his siblings stepped up for us.” Patton fondly remembered the community events that Harris supported, noting, “If it weren’t for men like him, most of us would be incarcerated or worse.”
The impact of Judge Harris’s life is evident in the heartfelt tributes from those who knew him. His dedication to justice, family, and community service resonated deeply, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of many. His passing is not only a loss to his family but also to the entire Meridian community, which will remember him as a steadfast servant and friend.
