Nettie L. Harris, age 98, peacefully entered into eternal rest at her home on Wednesday, October 7, 2026. Born in Milton, North Carolina, she was the beloved daughter of the late Floyd and Louise Watkins.

In 1956, Nettie relocated to Hagerstown, Maryland, where she met and married the love of her life, Albert E. Harris. Together they built a life centered on faith, family, and love.

She was preceded in death by her devoted husband, Albert E. Harris; her parents, Floyd and Louise Watkins; her brothers, Henry Watkins, Sr. and James Watkins; her sisters, Catherine Gibson and Margaret Jefferies; and her beloved grandson, Chauncey Fields.

Left to cherish her memory are her son, Albert W. Harris of Oxon Hill, Maryland; her daughter, Sandra K. Fields of Hagerstown, Maryland; her granddaughter, Nitia S. Cumberlander (Corey) of Waldorf, Maryland; and her treasured great-grandchildren, Riley and Raven Cumberlander of Waldorf, Maryland. She is also survived by a host of loving nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends. Her legacy of love, kindness, and devotion will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.

Nettie was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, aunt, and friend. Throughout the Watkins family, she was affectionately known as "Boo," "Aunt Boo," and "Cousin Boo." She also held the distinction of being the oldest living member of her family, a title that reflected both her longevity and the deep respect she earned from generations of loved ones.

She found great joy in traveling, especially on bus trips with her church family and members of the community. Her favorite annual excursion was to the Sight & Sound Theatre in Lancaster, Pennsylvania. Nettie also expressed her love through cooking and was widely known for her delicious homemade desserts, particularly her apple and peach cobblers and her signature yellow cake with chocolate icing. She especially enjoyed sweet potato pie and salmon cakes with potatoes, two of her favorite comfort foods.

One of Nettie's favorite pastimes was completing word-search puzzles, a hobby she enjoyed throughout her life. She also had a special love for dogs and was preceded in death by her cherished companion, Skippy, who was by her side for 16 years and was truly considered a member of the family.

Nettie touched the lives of everyone she encountered. She was a beacon of strength, faith, compassion, and love to her family, friends, and community. Her warm spirit, gentle heart, and unwavering faith will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

A faithful member of Zion Baptist Church, Nettie served diligently as a Deaconess and Missionary. She was also a member of the Adult Choir and was honored as one of the Mothers of the Church. Her steadfast commitment to her faith and church family was evident throughout her life and served as an inspiration to many.

Nettie will be remembered for her unwavering devotion to her family, her independence, and the immense pride she took in watching her family grow through the generations. At 98 years old, she was blessed to witness the lives of her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Her love, wisdom, and example touched several generations and will continue to guide and inspire those she leaves behind.

Her life was a testament to faith, resilience, and unconditional love. Though she will be greatly missed, her memory will live on forever in the hearts of all who were blessed to know her.

Homegoing services will be held at Zion Baptist Church on Friday, October 16, 2026.

Location: 61 Bethel Street, Hagerstown, MD 21740

Visitation 10:00-11:00am - Funeral begins at 11:00am