Paul Otis Harris Sr.

Paul Otis Harris, Sr., of Thomaston, Georgia transitioned peacefully to his heavenly home on Tuesday, January 23, 2024, at the prime age of 89. He was a member of First Baptist Church of Thomaston.

Mr. Harris was born on June 17, 1934, in Kerrville, Tennessee to the late Cecil Leslie and Bernice Chapman Harris. He served in the U.S. Army from 1953 to 1973. He served our country in the Korean War and the Vietnam War. His 20 year distinguished military service includes a Purple Heart, Army Commendation Medal, National Defense Service Medal with Oak Cluster.

Following his retirement from the military, Paul lived in Texas with his family until moving to Georgia in 1983. He was the owner and operator of the Whispering Pines Restaurant (steak house) in High Falls, Georgia. Many people would drive great distances to enjoy the great steaks, daily specials, and unique atmosphere of Whispering Pines. 

Mr. Harris enjoyed fishing with his grandchildren, going to Dickey Farms to buy the best Georgia peaches. Their famous peach ice cream was always a delight of his. He loved visits with his many grandchildren. In the later years of his life, his focus was on his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. He grew closer to the Lord as he listened and studied the Word of God with Bible teacher, Les Feldick. Mr. Harris understood the message of 1 Corinthians 15:1-4 as the gospel and his desire was that all would come to know salvation through faith alone. As we celebrate his passing from this earthly realm to the heavenly realm- he would hope each person would come to the true knowledge of the gospel of salvation found in these few scriptures.

Mr. Harris is predeceased by his first wife, Ursula B. Harris, his son, Paul O. Harris, Jr., 4 brothers, Bobby Joe Harris, Cecil Harris, Jr, Norris Wayne Harris, and Jimmy Harris. 2 sisters, Helen Harris Whitehead, and Joyce Harris Townsend.

He is survived by his wife, Carol Linch Harris, daughters, Gloria Janet Burson Paula Harris Griffin, and Juliana Fenn (Mik), his beloved family in Germany, Gabriele Schlueter (Karl-heinz), Ingo Schlueter (Andrea), Guido Schlueter (Denise), and Laura Schlueter. 2 stepsons, 15 grandchildren, 17 great grandchildren, numerous nephews and nieces.

 Please visit www.monroecountymemorialchapel.com to express your condolences. 

Monroe County Memorial Chapel 86 West Main Street Forsyth, Georgia has charge of the arrangements,