Evelyn Harris, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and devoted homemaker, passed away peacefully on July 26, 2025, in New Haven, Connecticut, surrounded by her loving family. She was 90 years old.

Born on June 2, 1935, in Cuthbert, Georgia, Evelyn was the cherished daughter of the late Marvin and Willie Bell Odums. She grew up grounded in faith, family, and love—values that remained central throughout her life.

Evelyn was united in marriage to Silas Harris, her lifelong partner and friend. Together, they built a strong and loving home, raising 14 children—seven sons and seven daughters. Evelyn dedicated her life to caring for her family and creating a home filled with warmth, guidance, and unconditional love.

She lived in Brooklyn, New York, for many years before settling in New Haven, Connecticut, where she continued to be the heart of her growing family. A proud matriarch and an unsung hero, Evelyn was the steady foundation of five generations. Her quiet strength, wisdom, and tireless love shaped not just her family but all who knew her.

Evelyn was a faithful member of Christ Presbyterian Church and found comfort and strength in her spiritual community. She also shared a close and enduring friendship with Delores Staggers, a bond that brought mutual love, support, and joy over the years.

Evelyn was preceded in death by her loving husband, Silas Harris; her son Paladin Harris; her parents, Marvin and Willie Bell Odums; and her siblings—Gladys Wilson, Marjorie Miley, Carol Hawkins, and Marvin Odums.

She leaves to cherish her memory her children:

Olivia Davis (John), Shirley Booker, Saladin Harris (Ethelean), Denise Harris, Leroy Harris (Gwendolyn), Talibdeen Nasheed (Brenda), Gary Harris, Silas Harris, Maxine Harris Branham (Juan), Joseph Harris (Charlie), Evelyn Felder (Alan), Asiyah Harris, and Aeysha Harris.

Evelyn’s legacy continues through her large and loving family, including over 50 grandchildren, more than 80 great-grandchildren, and over 30 great-great-grandchildren, as well as many nieces, nephews, extended relatives, and dear friends.

Her life was a shining example of strength, compassion, and selflessness. She will be remembered for her unwavering devotion to family, her kindness to all, and the love that she gave so freely to everyone around her.

Evelyn Harris will be deeply missed, but her spirit will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.

A celebration of Evelyn’s life and legacy will be held Monday, August 4, 2025, at 11:00 A.M. at The New Trinity Church of God in Christ, 285 Dixwell Ave., New Haven, CT, followed by the burial in Evergreen Cemetery, New Haven, CT. Family and friends may view at the church from 10:00-11:00 A.M. The service will be livestreamed via the following link: https://www.facebook.com/share/1aCS6EGuev/