Kimberley Baker Harris, age 65, passed away peacefully at home on Saturday, May 3, surrounded by her loving family, after a brief illness.

She was a beloved wife to her husband of 44 years, Rick Harris; a devoted mother to sons Bryce (Courtney) and Breck (Kelly); and a cherished “Mimi” to her grandchildren Leighton, Leo, and Aurelia.

Born on September 20, 1959, to Troy and Martha Baker, Kim grew up in Harriman, Tennessee, and graduated from the University of Tennessee in 1980. She and Rick made Roane County their lifelong home, where she dedicated her career to improving lives through workforce development.

Kim’s professional journey spanned 45 years, beginning with the JTPA/WIA in Workforce Network, where she spent over two decades. She later held several leadership roles at Roane State Community College, including Director of Placement, and concluded her career as Regional Workforce Manager with IACMI.
Her commitment to leadership and community service was widely recognized. Kim was a graduate of Leadership Roane County (1999), East Tennessee Regional Leadership (2001), Leadership Oak Ridge (2011), and Leadership Anderson County (2017). She served on the Roane County Chamber Board of Directors from 2007 to 2013 and was honored as the Athena Woman of the Year in 2000.

Outside of work, Kim embraced the beauty of life. She found joy in gardening—especially in the spring—and had a passion for holiday decorating, which became even more meaningful after becoming a grandmother. Her home was always open for gatherings, celebrations, and creating special memories. Known for her love for shopping, she added sparkle to all of our lives.

Kim was preceded in death by her parents, Troy and Martha Baker, and her mothers-in-law, Billie June Chaffin and Margaret Hedgecoth.

She is survived by her brother Mike Baker and his wife Cindy of Knoxville, nephew Will Baker of Knoxville, niece Elizabeth Baker of Brooklyn, NY and father-in-law Garfield Hedgecoth, Jr. of Harriman. She also leaves behind a large community of cousins, friends, and colleagues whose support was invaluable during her illness.

A private family graveside service will be held at Roane Memorial Gardens on Friday, May 16, at 11:00 a.m. A celebration of life for extended family, friends, and coworkers will take place on Saturday, May 17, from 2:00–4:00 p.m. at Roane State Community College – Vann Student Center, 276 Patton Lane, Harriman, TN 37748.

In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts may be made to the Roane State Foundation Raider Fund, 276 Patton Lane, Harriman, TN 37748, or online at: https://www.roanestate.edu/rsfmemorialgiving

Kyker Funeral Home of Harriman is serving the Harris Family.