Ursula E. Harris

Today, we gather not to say goodbye, but to say see you later to an extraordinary woman — Ursula Erika Harris.

Her sunrise began on April 10, 1949, in Hanover, Germany, born to Johannes and Lydia Berger. And on May 25, 2025, at UVA Hospital, her sunset marked the close of a beautiful life — not an end, but a transition. Between those dates was a journey full of strength, devotion, humor, and a deep, enduring love that touched everyone she met.

Ursula was so much more than a name. She was a daughter, a sister, a wife, a mother, an Omi, and a friend. She was the kind of person who made you feel better just by being in her presence. Her warmth was real, her laughter genuine, and her love — limitless.

She was raised alongside her sisters Isolde Binneweis (who preceded her in passing) and Ute Jones, who survives her today. In Mannheim, Germany, Ursula met the love of her life, Howard Harris, and they were married on September 16, 1974. Their love story was one of true partnership — a quiet, unwavering devotion that lasted more than 50 years.

Ursula later made her home in Virginia, where she worked in the Culpeper County Schools cafeteria for over a decade. She didn’t just serve meals — she served love, kindness, and comfort to every child who walked through the door.

She wasn’t called “Grandma” — that name was far too ordinary for someone so extraordinary. She was Omi — a name that captured her warmth, her spirit, and the special kind of love only she could give. Omi gave comfort, fun, and lasting memories.

She found joy in the simple pleasures of life — shopping with her granddaughters for purses and the latest fashion, cooking for her family, and knitting colorful scarves and hats that were as unique and vibrant as she was. Her tablet was never far, especially when it came to playing Candy Crush — a small joy she loved to indulge in daily.

Ursula’s greatest joy came from her family. She adored her great-grandchildren, Mateo Harris and Amir Law Jr., and her eyes would light up at the sound of their laughter. She had a special way of making everyone feel important, seen, and deeply loved.

She is survived by her sister Ute Jones, and is now reunited with her beloved sister Isolde Binneweis. She also leaves behind nieces Andrea Binneweis and Christine Miles; nephews Jon
Brannon, Andrew Brannon, and James Knoll; her children Christoph Branel, Katja Branel, and Charmaine Harris; her grandchildren Shanell Harris and Ashauni Harris; and her great-
grandchildren Mateo Harris and Amir Law Jr. And above all, she is survived by her forever love, Howard Harris.

Ursula was a soft-spoken woman who loved others deeply. She didn’t need to raise her voice to beheard — her actions spoke volumes. Her love was felt in quiet gestures, thoughtful words, and her unwavering presence in the lives of those she loved.

Her legacy lives on in every kind word we speak, every family tradition we continue, and every moment we hold dear.

So, this is not goodbye. This is simply — see you later, Omi. We love you deeply. We always will.

All funeral services will be held on Friday, June 6, 2025  starting at 1:00 PM at Horizon Chapel - 750 Old Brandy Rd, Culpeper, VA.  The interment will take place in the Culpeper National Cemetery at 2:00 PM.

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