Dale Alfred Harris, Sr., peacefully entered eternal rest on Tuesday, July 15, 2025, at St. Joseph’s Hospital in Towson, Maryland. Born to Clara Harris Ringgold, he was the eldest of her children and was lovingly raised by his aunt and uncle, Albert and Edith Berry.

 

Dale began his education at the former LaGrange School in Rocks, Maryland (now Street, Maryland), and later graduated from Central Consolidated Colored High School in Hickory, just outside Bel Air.

 

A dedicated and hardworking man, Dale pursued a lifelong career in construction. He played a key role in several major projects, including his work as a crew member on the expansion of the Conowingo Bridge. Later in his career, he had the joy of working alongside his son in commercial construction before laying down his tools in retirement.

 

Dale accepted salvation in Jesus Christ during a revival at Zion Temple Church under the leadership of the late Pastor Dorothy Barnes. However, his spiritual foundation was first established at Chestnut Grove AME Church in Street, Maryland. He went on to serve faithfully as a Deacon at Highway Holiness Church in Aberdeen under the late Bishop Clarence Barnes, and ultimately made Riverside Community Church his final church home—a place he joyfully proclaimed he would never leave.

 

A man full of life, Dale deeply cherished time spent with family and friends. He had a passion for “hot rod” cars, a growing collection of model cars, and a love for flowers, plants, and the great outdoors. Known for his faith, wisdom, and generosity, he was quick to smile, ready to help, and always full of encouraging words.

 

He leaves behind a legacy of love and strength in his beloved wife, Mary, and five children: Dale A. Harris, Jr. (Hazel), Vonzella Harris, Vincent Johnson, Sandra Trusty (Mark), and Kendra Pfarr (Matt).

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He is also survived by two sisters, Marva Choates and Judith Davis; two brothers, Douglas Ringgold (Barbara) and Marcus Ringgold (Tara); 13 grandchildren; 20 great-grandchildren; and a host of nieces, nephews, and extended family in Pennsylvania.

 

He was preceded in death by his mother, Clara Ringgold; his adoptive parents, Albert and Edith Berry; his brother, Larry Ringgold; his sister, Susan Tucker; and brothers-in-law, Gilbert Davis and Odell Choates.

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