Bill > SR679

This resolution honors the life and memory of Bishop William "Bill" Harris, a distinguished citizen of Georgia who passed away on December 9, 2025. It officially recognizes February 17, 2026, as Bishop William "Bill" Harris Day to commemorate his significant contributions. Bishop Harris was a devoted family man, a respected community leader, and a dedicated civil rights activist who was born in Albany, Georgia, in 1943. He was a man of deep faith, founding Bethel Church Ministries in Monroe, Georgia, and holding various leadership roles within religious organizations, including serving as Dean of Ministers and State Evangelist. His commitment to civil rights was profound; he worked with prominent figures like Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., and Congressman John Lewis, and was a field worker for organizations such as the Student Non-violent Coordinating Committee (SNCC) and the Southern Christian Leadership Conference (SCLC), even co-founding an Atlanta chapter of the SCLC. Bishop Harris actively participated in major civil rights events, endured violence and imprisonment during protests, and used music as a tool for inspiration through his involvement with The Freedom singers for justice. He was also a recording artist and toured with many famous musicians. Even up to his passing, he continued to educate younger generations about the Civil Rights Movement and engage in activism. The resolution directs that a copy of this tribute be provided to his family, expressing the Senate's sincere regret at his loss.

https://www.legis.ga.gov/legislation/72723