Albert S. Harris, Jr.

Albert S. Harris, 88, of Wyoming passed away on Thursday, February 2 at the VA Medical Center Hospice In-patient Unit in Wilkes-Barre, PA.

Al was born in Harrisburg, son of the late Albert S. and Thelma (Watkins) Harris. He graduated from
William Penn High School in York, PA and earned his Bachelor’s Degree from Gettysburg College. He was a proud member of the TKE Fraternity and continued in the An-TEKE brotherhood for many years.

After college, He proudly served his country in the US Army during the Korean War Era with an honorable discharge in 1958.

After discharge from his military service, Al was a third generation employee of International Harvester and began his career as a heavy duty truck salesman in York, PA. He then transferred to Lynchburg, VA where he purchased his own IH dealership which became Harris Truck Center in the 1970’s. After moving to Pennsylvania, he worked for Wilkes-Barre Mack Trucks and then eventually retired in 1997 from Castrol Oil Company . He was an honest businessman and appreciated the many loyal customers and friends he developed over the years.

He was involved in several organizations including the IH Collector’s Club and served as a Mason at the Dallas Lodge. Al was also an Irem Shriner and annually volunteered at the Irem Circus.

He was a long-time member of the Wyoming United Methodist church serving in the choir, as a Sunday School Superintendent, a Trustee, a Chairman of the Administrative Board, and volunteering for fund-raising dinners.

He became a loyal Penn State football fan after his son, Al, played for the school. He attended games at Beaver Stadium for over 40 years and especially enjoyed the Blue Band performances. He attended the 1983 Sugar Bowl, the 1995 Rose Bowl, and was thrilled to watch Penn State win the 2023 Rose Bowl.

Al and his wife were frequent diners at Agolinio’s restaurant in West Pittston where they would often invite friends and church members for Sunday brunch. They also enjoyed Cracker Barrel locally and when traveling, and the Grotto at Harvey’s Lake.

He had many health challenges over the years that he rarely spoke of. His family would like to thank all of the Providers and Staff at Geisinger Health System, Hospice of the Sacred Heart, and the VA Medical Center for such wonderful care that he received throughout the majority and end of his life.

Surviving is his beloved wife of 63 years, Janet (Gross) Harris. Children: Al (Alisa) Harris of Woodbine, NJ; Ted (Denise) Harris of West Pittston, PA; Simba (Frank) Zaffino of State College, PA; Grandchildren: AJ, Chris, Andre, and Dustin Harris, Melissa and Gavin Zaffino, great grandson Christopher Harris and sister Carolyn Van Newkirk.