JUDGE C. ROLAND HARRIS
Born June 22, 1947, in Toronto, passed away Jan. 6, 2024 in Barrie after a valiant battle with cancer. He was loved unconditionally by his late mother Muriel and father Charlie. Roly was a beloved husband to Janie for 48 years, an adored father to Summer, Christian (Danielle) and Stuart (Kyra), son in law to Marion and proud Papa to Drew, Rylan, Sawyer, Cohen, Hallie and Olivia.
Roly's work was his absolute passion. He was a defense lawyer and assistant Crown Attorney in Thunder Bay, Assistant Crown Attorney in Cobourg, Crown Attorney in North Bay, and ended his esteemed career as a Ontario Criminal Court Provincial Division Judge in Barrie for the past 28 years. He was known and respected in his professional life as a fair, empathetic, fastidious judge who truly believed in the legal process.
Roly LIVED his life to the fullest traveling the world and indulging and reveling in all of the people, places, music, food, and experiences that came his way. He co-authored a book on his precious Toronto Maple Leafs, collected sports, music and political autographs, was a member of the Barrie Film Board, The Rotary Club, Men’s Breakfast Club, The Island of Lost Toys and so much more.
Roly was a devoted family man who cherished the experiences shared with his wife, children and grandchildren. His many friends were also valued as family. Roly’s wife Janie was the light of his life and he would brag to anyone who would listen that he had the best wife in the universe.
Roly was a man of character, justice and incredible intelligence. He was also incredibly eccentric and had a sense of humour and zest for life rivaled by few. He will be remembered for his larger than life personality, his ability to love, his commitment to being a life-long learner and his authentic joy and interest in the people and the world around him.
A celebration of life will be held on January 27th, 2024 at The Southshore Community Centre in Barrie from 1-4pm. Please come armed with a fun “Roly story” to share. Casual dress with a colourful flair. If you have a picture or two of yourself with Roly or a fun story, please email it to [email protected] with a caption and your name. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Sleeping Children Around the World https://www.scaw.org/ or The Hospital for Sick Children https://www.sickkids.ca/en/support-sickkids/donate/