Priscilla Elaine Harris, 67, of Big Stone Gap. VA entered into her heavenly home on April 15, 2025. In her final moments, she was surrounded by family.
She was born to the late Henry and Mary Ada Fields on December 12, 1957, in Norton, VA. Elaine graduated from Appalachia High School and received an Associate Degree in Administrative Support Services from Mountain Empire Community College.
She is survived by her husband, Robert “Sugar Bear” Harris; six children: Shellie (Antwain) Hollinger of Big Stone Gap, VA; Shanita Bryant of Big Stone Gap, VA; Juanita (Andrew) Gilbert of Bell Buckle, TN; Emma (Matthew) Harris-Shortridge, of Hansonville, VA; Robert (Brianna) Harris of Big Stone Gap, VA; and Adam (Sarah) Harris of Big Stone Gap, VA. She is also survived by 25 grandchildren: Ashante’ (Justin) Zander, Kiera (Robert) Hartsock, Raekwon Mitchell, Caitlyn Mitchell, Akyssa (Tanner) Branham, A’Nyah (Madeline) Hollinger, Ja’Mere Bryant, Desirae Gilbert, Ja’Von (Abigale) Harris, Jazmyne Harris, Izaeah Shortridge, Malakye Harris, Dominic Collins, Brennan Harris, La’Breyah Tabor, Zendayah Harris, Rahlyja (Alexia) Harris, and Adaleah Harris and three great-grandchildren: Oakland Mitchell, Senorah Mitchell, and Kaiden Hartsock; Siblings: Jimmy Fields of Columbus, Ohio; Norma Jean Jiggetts of Richmond, VA; Ernestine Roberts of Atlanta, Georgia, Angela Long of Columbus, OH, Patricia Maclin, Joan Woolridge and Keith Fields of Columbus, OH and a host of nieces and nephews.
Elaine was predeceased by her loving parents, Henry and Mary Ada Fields, Infant Daughter, Taleesha Fields, and siblings Henry “June” Fields Jr., Thomas Fields, Mary Ann Copeland, and Linda Dykes.
Elaine's devotion to her loving husband and children was evident in every aspect of her life. She dedicated herself to being the best mother she could be to her six children, ensuring their well-being and education were always her top priorities. Only after seeing all her children enrolled in school did she embark on her fulfilling 20+ year culinary career with Head Start.
Her children and grandchildren were the center of her universe, her pride and joy, her guiding light, and her most treasured accomplishments. She was a fierce protector, always ready to defend and support her loved ones. Her presence was a source of warmth and joy, her laugh and smile brightening any room. No family gathering was complete without her singing and dancing, her infectious energy and enthusiasm drawing everyone in. And, of course, her culinary skills were legendary; her famous potato salad and dressing were always in high demand.
Elaine's faith was also a cornerstone of her life. Elaine served as the Choir Director, Deaconess, and a member of the Devoted Angels at Macedonia Baptist Church. As choir director, she loved inspiring those around her with her beautiful voice and her unwavering belief in the power of music to uplift and transform. As a Deaconess at Macedonia Baptist Church, she poured her heart and soul into the Caring Hearts Ministry. Through this ministry, she discovered profound purpose and fulfillment in sharing her testimony and radiating her inner light to everyone she encountered. Her life was a living testament to the boundless love she held for her husband, children, family, and friends—a life inspired with purpose, passion, and an unwavering devotion that touched the lives of all who were fortunate enough to know her.
Elaine's life was a shining example of a life well-lived. Her unwavering faith, her boundless love, and her unwavering commitment to serving others. Though she may be gone, her memory lives on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her. Her legacy of love, faith, and family will continue to inspire and guide those she left behind. And as the saying goes, "This is not goodbye, 'Angels on Your Pillow.' May she rest in heavenly peace, surrounded by the love and light she so generously shared with everyone.
The family will receive friends 11:00am – 1:00pm Tuesday, April 22, 2025, at Gilliam Funeral Home, 618 Wood Ave., W., Big Stone Gap, Va. The service will follow at 1:00pm with Pastor Carolyn Smith and Pastor Sandra Jones officiating.
Gilliam Funeral Home and Crematory is honored to serve the Harris family.
To view the obituary online and offer condolences, visit www.gilliamfuneralhome.com or the funeral home Facebook page.