Elizabeth Louise "Betsy" Runion Harris

SWANSBORO – Elizabeth Louise “Betsy” Runion Harris, age 91, passed from this earthly journey to dwell for all eternity with her Savior, Jesus Christ on Saturday, July 4, 2026.

She was born to the late William Bert and Lily Lora Abigal Farnor Runion on February 8, 1935, in Erwin, Tenn. She is also preceded in death by brothers;  Luke B Runion of Bakersville, N.C., William B Runion Jr. (Bill) of Spruce Pine, N.C., Jacob B Runion of Spring Grove, PA., Robert M Runion of Bakersville, N.C., Charles L Runion of Spruce Pine, N.C.; sisters: Infant, Alma Runion of Erwin, Tenn., Clara G Hensley of Bakersville, N.C., Rebecca Crawford of Lenior, N.C.

Mrs. Harris is survived by her beloved family, her husband, E. Sanford Harris of the home; son, Greg Harris and wife Debra Ross Harris of Stella, N.C.; granddaughter, Paige Harris Joyner and husband Jonathan Joyner; one great-granddaughter, Taylor Elizabeth Joyner of Peletier, N.C.; step-grandson, Kyle Ramsey, wife Mary Ramsey; children, Finley and Callum Ramsey of Youngsville, N.C.; many nieces and nephews that she mentored and loved dearly.

She was employed by Southern Bell for two years and then married the love of her life, Sanford Harris, in 1954. He was in the Air Force deployed to England where they lived until 1956. Upon returning to the United States, she became employed by the Carolina Telephone Company. She remained in telecommunications for 50 years, retiring in 2007 for health reasons.

She believed you preach your own funeral every day. She also believed there were so many people who touched her life for the better, both friends and family. She was grateful for each one and loved them dearly. The Golden Rule was difficult to follow sometimes however; she tried to live by it daily. She was a member of Englewood Baptist Church since 1971. She was also a member of the Order of the Eastern Star and served as Worthy Matron several times. She was an active member of Rocky Mount Shrinettes for many years. She will be missed greatly by all who know her.

A Funeral Service will be held on Wednesday, July 8, 2026, at 11:00 AM in the Chapel of Johnson Funeral Home and Cremation Service, 661 English Road, Rocky Mount, NC  27804 with Rev. Jacob Willis officiating. A visitation will be from 10:00 AM – 10:45 AM prior to the service in the Chapel of Johnson Funeral Home and Cremation Services.

Flowers are welcome or memorial contributions may be made to SECU Crystal Coast Hospice House, 100 Big Rock Weigh Newport, NC 28570.

Condolences may be sent to the family at

Mailing address:

Mr. and Mrs. Greg Harris

722 Cedar Point Blvd #154

Cedar Point, NC 28584

Arrangements entrusted to Johnson Funeral Home & Cremation Services, 661 English Road, Rocky Mount, NC 27804.  You may share memories and condolences with the family by visiting www.johnsonfuneralsandcremations.com.