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Mr. Gary Anthony Harris, 79, of Charlotte, NC, departed this life on Sunday, April 27, 2025, at Huntersville Health & Rehabilitation.

Gary Anthony Harris was born to Enan Brezan and Violet Francis Harris in the twin islands of Trinidad and Tobago, on April 16, 1946.  He departed this life on Sunday, April 27, 2025, at the age of 79.

Gary's love for "Pan" and music resonated with him from childhood.  He lived and died as a "Pan Man."  He was the founder of Wonderland Steel Orchestra at the tender age of 12, in 1958 with some of his friends.  The name later changed to Solo Harmonites Steel Orchestra.  The band won the now popular Panorama in 1968, which starts the Carnival season in Trinidad and Tobago.  His love for Pan and music led him to the United States where he and his band mates traveled and played the Steel Drums for dignitaries.  He settled in New York City where he met his beloved wife, Barbara; they both shared a love for music. Gary and Barbara shared their love for music and served on the Board of Directors for the Afro American Cultural Center in Charlotte, NC, as well as teaching music lessons, and educating all who walked through the doors about Africa.  In 2003, the Mayor of Charlotte, Patrick McCrory, presented him with a Certificate of Appreciation for bringing Pan Music to Charlotte.  He also partnered with the Blumenthal Performing Arts Center where he conducted classes to educate anyone who wanted to learn about steel drums and the originators in Trinidad and Tobago.  He taught children and adults to play the pan and conducted concerts at the Blumenthal Theater.

Gary, affectionally known as Daddy, Grandpa, and G, will be missed by his family and friends.  His conversations and love for his friends, genuine affection for his children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, and nephews was always evident.  His legacy will live on through his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, and will remain in our hearts 'till the end of time.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Barbara Harris; his daughter, Makeda; his granddaughter, Makayla; and his brothers, Tony and Albert Harris.  He leaves to cherish his memory his children, Kurt Harris of Trinidad and Tobago, Tsahi (Lorne) of Charlotte, Netfa (Janelle) of Charlotte, and Albert Spann of Trinidad and Tobago; nine grandchildren, LaKinda, Hydiyah, NaJayah, Sunnia, Kwame, Nasiria, Jazzlyn, Nearie, and Ayanaa; three great grandchildren, Hezekiah, Nandi, and Na'Zorah.  He also leaves behind a host of family and friends to cherish his memory.