Funeral service is pending.

Verla Anne Harris-Lawrence began her early years with her parents, James Benjamin Harris (deceased) and Edna Walker Harris (deceased), alongside her siblings Lewis Samuel Walker Sr. (deceased), Deborah Robinson, and James Xavier “Zay” Harris (deceased).

Verla was born in Mecklenburg County, Charlotte, North Carolina. In 1964, the family moved to Greensboro, North Carolina, where she began and completed her education through the Guilford County School System. She later continued her studies at GTCC College in Greensboro, NC. One of her greatest accomplishments was returning to college in her 60s and remaining on the Dean’s List throughout her studies. 

Her work experience had many faces, from entrepreneurial ventures to management roles. Some included janitorial services, home daycare, insurance agent, and customer service. Verla also shared her love through cooking and baking, turning her passion into a source of income while caring for others through her meals and desserts.

Her remaining working years were dedicated to healthcare, where she truly flourished. Caring for others was not just her profession — it was her passion. 

Those who knew Verla knew her as a woman of strength, compassion, and resilience. She was outspoken, funny, and full of love. She always found ways to support and encourage others. 

God and faith meant everything to Verla. She loved sharing the Word on social media, sending songs, scriptures, and encouraging messages to the people she loved. If you knew Verla, you probably got the same message from her two or three times — that was just her way of making sure everyone felt loved, encouraged, and reminded of God.

Verla will also be remembered for her sayings, or “Verla-isms.” Whether through a phone call, text message, social media post, or conversation, she always found a way to leave people with laughter, wisdom, or a reminder to keep the faith. 

Some of her favorite expressions included: “Just as sho’ as you peed this mornin’,” “I’mma tell you what the good Lord love,” “Whut thuh hail y’all won’t,” and “Das not what I asked you.” Her words will forever live on in our hearts and memories.