William Bernard Harris born June 28, 1950 was a lifelong resident of Dallas, Texas. He is the fourth sibling of six children born to the parentage of Bennie and Ruby Harris. He is also twin to his sister Melba. William attended Colonial and Phyllis Wheatley Elementary Schools and Mirabeau B. Lamar Middle School. He completed his high school years at James Madison High School graduating with Honors. He was well liked by his classmates who affectionately called him "Lil William". After graduating in 1968, he attended the University Of North Texas in Denton, Texas.

During his work career, William held various positions at Republic Bank, Texas Oil & Gas, Harken Energy Corp., Highland Energy Company, and BASA Resources, Inc., Oil & Gas. His work life also included working in his Dad's janitorial service as helper and later as manager.

William was an avid sports fan and enjoyed attending and watching many of the games of the professional sports teams. He was very competitive and spent some of his free time participating in amateur sports leagues. He particularly enjoyed playing chess and the game of billiards. He was able to compete at a high level in those endeavors winning many tournaments during his college career and afterwards.

William married Beverly J. Horne in 1983 and immediately developed a strong bond with her son Qwinton ("Que"), whom he later adopted as his son. He was extremely proud of him and worked hard to provide him support and spiritual guidance. He took his role as his father seriously and always supported "Que's efforts in his life's journey.

During his youth, William attended with his family the Bexar St. Baptist Church pastored by the late Rev. R. L. Robertson.

He later became a dedicated member of the New Covenant Missionary Baptist Church, under the leadership of his father, Rev. Bennie Harris, where he served as Deacon and taught Sunday School & Bible Study. William enjoyed helping others and often went out of his way to demonstrate his caring attitude. He has touched the lives of many through his efforts and used those opportunities to share his love and commitment to his faith. He was a remarkable person who garnered a high level of respect from family, friends and co-workers alike. He will be missed by the many who dearly loved and appreciated him.

He is preceded in death by his mother, Mrs. Ruby L. Harris, brothers, Bennie D. Harris and Michael D. Harris. He is survived by his son Qwinton Harris, grandson, Anferne Harris, father Rev. Bennie Harris, sisters, Brenda Lynn & Melba (Don) Durall, brother Billy (JoLinda) Harris and a host of relatives and friends.