Dr. Stephen "Steve" Edward Harris

Dr. Stephen Harris, 82, of Fairview, made his journey home to be with his Savior on May 1, 2025.

He was born on March 8, 1943, in Newport News, VA, to the late Ralph and Lottie Brigman Harris, and was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, and son.

Steve graduated from Fruitland College and went on to earn his bachelor’s degree from Mars Hill College, and master’s and doctorate degrees from Covington Theological Seminary. A dedicated servant in the ministry of the Lord, he led Trinity of Fairview Church for 36 years as Senior Pastor. After retiring from Trinity, he was Interim Pastor at Reed Memorial Church for 2 years and then at Ridgecrest Baptist Church for 6 years. He worked in the Buncombe Baptist Association as RA Director and led children’s summer camps for many years. He loved and adored talking about Jesus and touched the lives of many people. He was still teaching weekly Bible studies at Trinity until November of 2024.

Pastor Harris enjoyed reading, traveling, searching for antiques, picnicking, and visiting the Biltmore Estate and Dollywood. Above all these, he loved to spend time with his family and friends doing anything they desired to do, whatever that may be. He could be found at the beach, at family gatherings, ballgames, horse events, concerts, or on the golf course when he was able.

He is survived by his loving and faithful wife, Sandra Burns Harris; one daughter, Stephanie Sluder (Eddie); one son, Stacey Harris (Tammy); six grandchildren, Ashlee Sluder, Jeremy Sluder of Greenville, SC, Aubree Cauble (Cody) of Houston, TX, Jonathan Sluder, Rachel Kelly (Nick), and Rylie Earley (Austin) of Raleigh, NC; one great-grandson, Harrison Kelly; one sister, Carolyn Hampton of Marion, NC; two sister-in-laws, Dorothy Warwick of Fort Lauderdale, FL, and Linda Briggs of Asheville, NC; and many nieces and nephews.

A celebration of life service will be held at Trinity of Fairview on Monday, May 5 at 1:30 p.m. officiated by Rev. Stacey Harris and Rev. Danny Hampton. His family will greet friends at the church immediately following the services. A private burial will be held at Cane Creek Cemetery.

Groce Funeral Home’s Lake Julian team is assisting the family.