Published on March 23, 2026 4:15 pm
Last Updated on March 23, 2026 4:15 pm
Ron Harris, 79, of Effingham, passed away peacefully on March 21, 2026.
He was born on May 25, 1946, and lived a life marked by hard work, creativity, and a deep love for family and simple joys. Ron had a lifelong passion for cars—especially classic and hot rods. A founding member of the Ramblin’ Relics Car Club (now Class Pack), he could often be found at car shows and swap meets, sharing stories and admiring craftsmanship. A true tinkerer, Ron spent countless hours in his garage, where he built, restored, and sold more than 100 cars, a testament to both his skill and dedication. As those who knew him often said, if you brought Ron a door handle and a title, he could build you a car. Beyond his love of automobiles, Ron enjoyed life’s quieter pleasures. He loved reading, watching westerns and NCIS, spending time observing deer in the backyard, and going on drives—especially with those he loved. He had a special fondness for 1950s and 1960s music and was an avid collector. He also enjoyed bowling and was known to be quite good at it. He worked throughout his life at several places, including the Army Ammunition Plant in Joliet, Illinois, as well as Dust & Sons, C & L Lincoln Mercury, Montgomery Ward, Sunbeam Bread Company, Crossroads Truck Equipment, Effingham Truck Sales, and RPM Truck Repair, where he retired. Ron had a straightforward nature and knew what he liked—he wasn’t a fan of reruns “leftovers” —but he always appreciated a good drive and a stop for ice cream, with his favorite being the Shelbyville Dairy Queen.
Ron first married Mary Kay (Luchtefeld) Nadler, and to this union two children were born, Christy and Donna. He later married Sherrill (Nattier) Hubbartt on August 23, 2004. Ron shared many cherished memories with his wife, Sherrill, including attending car shows together, especially The Frog Follies. He was a devoted family man who deeply loved his family and treasured time spent with them. Ron Harris will be remembered for his ingenuity, his strong work ethic, his passion for cars, and the love he gave to his family and friends. He leaves behind a legacy of craftsmanship, memories, and a life well lived.
Ron is survived by his wife, Sherrill; his children, Christy Dietzen, Franklin, TN; and Donna (Shawn) Fitzjarrald, Effingham, IL; his step-children, Shawn (Jean) Hubbartt, Willis, TX; Angi (Troy) Hallowell, Charleston, IL. Ron is also survived by his grandchildren who adored him, Abigail Dietzen, Franklin, TN; Teddy Dietzen, Pompano Beach, FL; Shaelee (Chris) Pilger, Altamont, IL; Harrison (Jamie) Fitzjarrald, Effingham, IL; and Adrien (Connor Wines) Fitzjarrald, Nashville, TN; his great-granddaughters, Peyson Pilger and Elliana Fitzjarrald. He leaves behind his siblings, Alan (Sharon) Harris, Effingham, IL, Bob (Becky) Harris, Altamont, IL, Linda (Tom) Ash, Cerro Gordo, IL, and Joe (Renee) Harris, Denton, TX; and his beloved mother, Gertie Harris, who at 100 years old remains a remarkable part of his legacy—a testament to the strong family roots and enduring love that shaped his life.
He was preceded in death by his father, Charlie Harris.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, April 1, 2026 at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Shumway. Burial will be in St. Mary’s Cemetery. Visitation will be held from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday, March 31, 2026 at Johnson Funeral Home in Effingham. It would be an honor to Ron if anyone attending would drive their hot rod/classic car to the services! In lieu of flowers and gifts, memorials may be made to the family. Online condolences may be shared at www.johnsonandsonsfh.com.