Lonnie Harris, 78, of Salem passed away on April 29, 2021. He was predeceased by his mother and wife, and he is survived by a family that loved him.

Lonnie came from humble beginnings. He was one of ten brothers and sisters, raised solely by his mother from an early age. They learned to live off of the land in Shooting Creek in Patrick County. He and his brothers made moonshine to help provide for the family.

One of his first jobs was at a small machine shop. He was so fascinated with machining, he wanted to learn everything about it. But then he landed at Stanley Furniture, where he met the love of his life, Rosie. It was love at first sight. In 1967 they got married and moved to Salem. Lonnie worked at Graham – White and Shentool. He then started his own business out of a little garage at this home, called Lonzo's Saw & Tool. Later he was asked by Medeco Security Locks to move his business in with them. He worked there for 17 years and he truly loved his job there. Then he opened another business called Crown Carbide where he worked for 13 years and retired.

Lonnie's passion was his prized Goldwing motorcycle. Lonnie and Rosie took numerous trips, but the greatest was a 30-day around the entire US. His other passion was wood working. He has made some amazing pieces.

He was a very hard working man dedicated to his family. He was kind, sweet, loving, and extremely comical. Loved by everyone that met him. He was a wonderful Dad and Grandfather.

We rejoice that he is now in peace and with the love of his life, Rosie.

A Graveside Service will be held at 11:00 a.m.  on Monday, May 3, 2021 at Sherwood Memorial Park in Salem, Virginia.