Harris D Edwards

With love and gratitude for a life well lived, we celebrate the life of Harris Dillon Edwards, who peacefully departed this life on July 2, 2026, at the age of 91. Born on November 27, 1934, in the village of Delaford, Tobago, Harris was the son of Lydia Jane Edwards and Clunis Edwards. Tobago, the smaller island of the twin-island Republic of Trinidad and Tobago, was where Harris spent his early years and developed the values of hard work, resilience, and family that would guide him throughout his life. Harris was one of eight children and the last son born to his parents. His siblings were Nelly, Catherine, Winston, Cleveland, Ina, Emris, Eugene (who passed away in childhood), and Helen. He shared a close bond with his brothers and sisters throughout his life and is survived by his beloved sister, Helen McMillan, the last living sibling of the Edwards family. He attended Delaford Anglican Primary School, where he enjoyed a lively childhood filled with adventure and laughter. Like many children growing up in Tobago, Harris spent his days flying kites, pitching marbles, and blowing bamboo. Even as a young boy, however, his creativity and natural gift for building were evident. His sister Helen fondly recalled that Harris loved building homemade "automotives," or trucks as he called them. Crafted with remarkable ingenuity, these wooden trucks even had steering wheels. He delighted in pushing Helen and their cousin Ethlyn around the yard of the family home at Breeze Hall. True to his playful nature, Harris would sometimes jump out just before reaching the steep embankment known as Barrel Hole, leaving the girls laughing—and scrambling—to keep the truck from going over the edge. These cherished childhood memories reflected both his imagination and his mischievous sense of humor. What began as childhood play soon became a lifelong passion. Harris's love for designing, building, and creating things developed into an extraordinary skill that shaped the course of his life. As a young man, Harris left Tobago and moved to Trinidad, where he lived with his Uncle Neville, his mother's brother. Under Uncle Neville's patient guidance and expert tutelage, Harris learned the trade of construction and developed into a master builder. His dedication, attention to detail, and exceptional craftsmanship quickly earned him a reputation for excellence. From there, Harris developed an exceptional career as a builder. His craftsmanship and dedication earned him recognition throughout Trinidad, leading to opportunities to work on some of the country's most notable construction projects. He proudly helped build the historic Salvatori Building in the heart of Port of Spain, one of the city's most recognized architectural landmarks, as well as the Arida Beds Factory in Santa Cruz and many other projects. His work helped shape the landscape of Trinidad and stood as a lasting testament to his skill, precision, and strong work ethic. In his late thirties, Harris immigrated to the United States in search of greater opportunities for himself and his family. He settled in New York City, where he continued his career in construction before becoming a Building Inspector for the City of New York. He faithfully served the city for many years until his retirement. Never one to stop working toward a better future, Harris also invested in apartment buildings throughout New York, proudly serving as a landlord for many years and providing quality housing for countless families. Harris was also known as quite the dancer. Back in the village of Delaford, he was famous for his remarkable footwork. Whenever he stepped onto the dance floor, people would gather to admire his effortless style and smooth moves. Dancing wasn't just something he enjoyed—it was part of who he was. He also loved playing cards and looked forward to the friendly competition, laughter, and fellowship that came with every game. Whether surrounded by family, friends, or neighbors, Harris cherished these moments of togetherness, creating memories that will be treasured for generations. Always impeccably dressed, Harris took great pride in his appearance. He especially loved buying bold, fashionable shoes to wear to parties. Those eye-catching shoes were among his prized possessions, and he jokingly kept them hidden from his brothers, Winston and Cleveland, who wore the same shoe size and were known to admire his stylish collection. His sharp sense of fashion, infectious smile, and lively spirit made him unforgettable to everyone who knew him. Above all, Harris loved the Lord. His faith was the foundation of his life and guided the way he treated others—with compassion, humility, and grace. He was a faithful member of Saint Gabriel's Episcopal Church in Brooklyn, New York, where he worshipped regularly and enjoyed fellowship with his church family. He was also a familiar face at the church's Senior Center, where he built lasting friendships and found great joy in spending time with others in the community. Known for his quiet strength, integrity, and warm smile, Harris believed in the importance of hard work, faith, and treating everyone with kindness and respect. Whether spending time with family, sharing stories from years gone by, or offering words of encouragement, he made everyone around him feel valued and loved. His life was a testament to perseverance, compassion, and grace. While his physical presence will be deeply missed, the memories he created and the values he instilled will continue to inspire generations to come. Harris was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Gwendolyn Lewis-Edwards; his parents, Lydia Jane Edwards and Clunis Edwards; and his siblings, Nelly Edwards, Catherine Edwards, Winston Edwards, Cleveland Edwards, Ina Edwards, Emris Edwards, and Eugene Edwards, who passed away in childhood. He is survived by his beloved sister, Helen McMillan of Trinidad and Tobago. He leaves behind his four beloved children: Eartha Whitehead, Donna Edwards, Dave Edwards, and Derrick Edwards, who will forever cherish his love, guidance, and the many lessons he shared. His legacy also lives on through his cherished grandchildren, Nicole Edwards, Melanie Whitehead, Kevin Whitehead, and Shevaughn Whitehead; his treasured great-grandchildren, Skylar Williams, Ellis Whitehead, Ziggy Whitehead, Marcellus Parker, and Eli Parker; along with a host of nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends, all of whom were blessed by his presence. The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to everyone who has offered prayers, love, and support during this difficult time. Your kindness and compassion have been a source of great comfort. "Well done, good and faithful servant." Matthew 25:23 Though we mourn his passing, we rejoice in knowing that his race was well run, his faith never wavered, and his legacy of love, hard work, and devotion to God and family will live on forever in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.

Harris D Edwards

November 27, 1934 - July 2, 2026