John Wesley "Wes" Harris

October 29, 1940 – March 10, 2025

John Wesley "Wes" Harris, 84, of Geneseo, Illinois, passed away peacefully on March 10, 2025, with his wife at his side. Born on October 29, 1940, in Erwin, Tennessee, to Ralph and Bertie Harris, Wes lived a life dedicated to family, service, and community.

A proud athlete, Wes played basketball at Unicoi County High School (Erwin, Tennessee) before pursuing higher education at the University of Tennessee, where he earned a degree in Mechanical Engineering. While in college, he also served in the Army Reserve, demonstrating his lifelong commitment to service.

Following graduation, Wes embarked on a distinguished career as a civilian mechanical engineer for the United States Army, beginning his work at Aberdeen Proving Ground in Aberdeen, Maryland. It was there that he met Mary Meyer, the love of his life. Their bond grew strong, and after receiving a promotion, Wes was transferred to Rock Island Arsenal in Rock Island, Illinois, to work in the project manager's office on the development of the 198 Howitzer—a role he took great pride in. His contributions to this critical defense project were among the most meaningful achievements of his career.

Wes and Mary married on August 30, 1969, and together, they built a warm and loving home in Geneseo, where they raised their daughter, Leslie. Their marriage was one of unwavering love, partnership, and shared purpose.

Wes was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather who took immense pride in his family. He cherished the life he built with Mary and the love they shared with their daughter, son-in-law, and grandchildren. His wisdom, kindness, and steady presence shaped their lives, and his legacy will live on through them.

A music enthusiast, Wes had a deep love for jazz. He was a regular attendee of the Bix Beiderbecke Memorial Jazz Festival and rarely missed the Summer Concerts in the Park at Geneseo City Park. Whether listening to a classic jazz recording or enjoying live music with friends and family, he found great joy in the rhythm and energy of the music he loved.

Throughout his life, Wes was an active and dedicated member of his community. He selflessly gave his time to many organizations, serving on the Geneseo Historical Museum Board, volunteering with the First Congregational United Church of Christ in Geneseo, and contributing to the Hammond-Henry Hospital Auxiliary. His passion for education and the arts led him to serve on both the Geneseo Band Boosters Board and the Geneseo Choral Boosters Board, always supporting the next generation of musicians and performers. He was also a proud member of Kiwanis, embodying its mission of service and leadership.

Wes is preceded in death by his parents, Ralph and Bertie Harris; his brother, Damon Harris; and his sister-in-law, Myra Harris. He is survived by his loving wife of 55 years, Mary Meyer Harris; his daughter, Leslie (Harris) Stock (Mark); his grandchildren, Nicholas, Emma, Isaac, and Charlie; his brother, James Harris (Paula); and many extended family members and dear friends.

Wes’s kindness, intellect, and unwavering devotion to family and community will be deeply missed. His love of Mary, music, history, and service leaves a lasting legacy in the hearts of those who knew him.

Visitation will be held at Vandemore Funeral Home – Geneseo Chapel on Saturday, March 22, 2025, from 1:00 – 2:00 p.m., followed by a memorial service at 2:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Aisle of Flags, Rebuilding Together, Inspire Geneseo - Atkinson in Wes’s memory.