Bradford Stuart Harris, Jr.

HENDERSON- Bradford Stuart Harris, Jr., 80, of Henderson, NC, passed away on August 31, 2026, at Brookdale Senior Living Facility in Burlington, NC. Born October 5, 1945 in Vance County, he was the son of Bradford Stuart Harris and Louise Ellis Harris.

Stuart, Daddy, or Papa Stu to many who loved him (he was okay being called just about anything except late for dinner), graduated from Dabney High School. He attended North Carolina Wesleyan College and graduated from St. Andrews Presbyterian College. Upon graduation Stuart went to work with Rose’s Department Stores and moved to Orangeburg, SC, where he met his future wife, Trilbie Hutchins. The couple later moved back to Henderson and started their family of all girls in the Dabney community. Stuart’s love of his home and farm was evident as he continued the tradition of caring for the land and the many animals who were part of the family. Over the years, Stuart would have many different “jobs,” but his favorite roles would always be husband, Daddy, and PapaStu.

Stuart is survived by his daughters: Candi Tucker (Curt) of Chocowinity, NC; VeeCee Harris of High Point, NC; and Shea Rocheleau (Jim) of Elon, NC. He is also survived by grandchildren, who brought him great joy, entertainment and love: Nathan Rocheleau of Boone, NC; Sarah Tucker of Chapel Hill, NC; Brady Rocheleau (named after Papa Stu) of Elon, NC; and Tate Tucker, of Raleigh, NC. He is also survived by his brothers-in-law, Butch Hutchins of Missouri City, TX and Mark Browder of West Columbia, SC; niece, Claire Robinson of Missouri City, TX; nephew, Grant Hutchins of Missouri City, TX; and niece, Lauren Guy of Prosperity, SC.

Stuart was preceded in death by his parents; his daughter, Tysh Ellis Harris; a grandson, Harris Michael Rocheleau; and wife, Trilbie.

Stuart could not dance and was often told he had two left feet, but he sure did love music. There would be toe-tapping and singing whenever the radio played. Stuart enjoyed baking. He had a solid understanding of how to make the best pound cake and was in charge of weekend pancake/waffle breakfasts when the girls were young. He was quite the jokester and handyman. He was quick to share a joke or funny story with anyone willing to listen, often while fixing whatever broken object someone brought him.

The family is grateful for the love, care, compassion, and support it has received during Stuart’s illness. The staff at Springview Assisted Living, Brookdale Senior Living and AuthoraCare Hospice of Burlington’s Jillian, Charlotte and Brian made a world of difference in his final days. Stuart and his girls truly appreciate how Lila Corey, Renee Bryant, Greg Tapson, Charlie Keeter, the residents of Camp Kerr Lake, and special friend, Martha Hedgepeth have been a part of his life over the years.

A service will be held October 17, 2026, at 2:00pm, at the Pavilion at Camp Kerr Lake, by Reverend Butch Huffman and Billy Callahan.

Flowers will be accepted or memorials may be made to Shriners Hospitals for Children, 950 West Faris Road, Greenville, SC 29605.