One of the Lords greatest soldiers was called home on Sunday, June 22, 2014 at the age of 75 years. Harry Sylvester Staves was born March 29, 1939 in Memphis, Tennessee to Cora and William Staves.
Harry received an honorable discharge after faithfully serving his country with the United States Army. On September 28, 1991 he joined Sharon Dudley in holy matrimony. Together they shared 34 years of love and friendship. Harry took special care of his family, often cooking and taking them wherever they wanted to go. He loved his family with all his heart and enjoyed spending time with them. In his spare time, Harry enjoyed watching his favorite shows NCIS and The Good Wife. He was a faithful member of Word of Faith International Ministries for over 20 years under the leadership of Pastor Dr. Byron C. and Chestermae Hayes. Harry served as Captain of the security team, teacher of the Holy Spirit class, Mentor of the Jail and Street Ministries. He loved to counsel and minister the word to everyone he came in contact with. Harry was a great man whose magnificent presence will be truly missed by all who knew and loved him.
He leaves to cherish his memory his devoted wife, Sharon Staves; four daughters, Cheryl (Melvin) Fondren, Janice Lewis, Catrina Dudley and Patricia Staves; two sons, Harry Rhodes and Harry M. Staves; eleven grandchildren, Shontell, Demarcus, Ryan, Alexander, Janiece, DeKayla, Bernice, Jovell Jr., Jovon, Mathew and Lavender; two great-grandchildren, Nephonzie Jr. and NiAira; two god-daughters, Gogi West and Bernadette Brown; three god-sons, Nefonzie Phillips, Victor (Miriam) Johnson and James (Sophia) Perry; one sister, DeLois Turner; many nieces, nephews and cousins; two aunts, Earnestine Brooks and Mattie Smith; one uncle, Charlie Smith; two sisters-in-law, Darlene Brand and Beverly Dudley; one brother-in-law, George Brand; many other relatives and friends including his pastor, Dr. Byron C. Hayes who was also his advisor, mentor and friend.
Harry was preceded in death by his parents, Cora and William Staves, two sisters, Barbara McHenry and Hattie Rhodes, one son, Harry Michael Staves, grandparents, Emit and Hattie Staves and one nephew, Travell Staves.
The family wishes to express special thanks to Dr. Byron C. Hayes and the Word of Faith International Ministries family, the staff of St. Marys of Michigan Medical Center and everyone who offered love, kind words and condolences. We love you and may God bless you all!
Visitation: Paradise Funeral Chapel Obituaries
Service Plans: Paradise Funeral Chapel Obituaries
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