Roy "Curt" Harness, a devoted father, grandfather, and proud Navy veteran, passed away peacefully on September 20, 2026, in Newport, Rhode Island. He was born on November 28, 1946, in Smoky Junction, Tennessee, to the late Claude and Glenis Harness.

After graduating from Riley High School in South Bend, Indiana, in 1965, Curt proudly joined the United States Navy that same year. He went on to serve his country for 21 years in the submarine service, achieving the rank of Lieutenant Commander before retiring in 1986. During his military career, Curt earned a degree in nuclear engineering from Purdue University in 1974 and earned a master's degree at Webster University in 1985. Following his retirement from the Navy, he remained involved in the defense sector through various military contracts.

Curt's lifelong connection to the submarine community was recognized when he was inducted into the United States Submarine Veterans' Holland Club, an honor bestowed upon submariners who have reached the milestone of 50 years since earning their submarine qualification. The distinction was a fitting recognition of his enduring dedication to the submarine service and the community that remained an important part of his life.

In 1967, Curt married the love of his life, Carol. Together, they built a life centered around family and created many cherished memories throughout their years together. Curt especially treasured his role as a grandfather. He enjoyed sharing his interests with his grandchildren, whether taking them shooting, working together on woodworking projects, or simply spending time together. Family vacations and time at the lake house were particularly special to him, as were trips to South Carolina to visit his daughter Tanya and her family.

Curt was an active member of the National Rifle Association and the Military Officers Association of America. He will be remembered for his devotion to his family, his pride in his military service, and the many experiences and traditions he shared with those he loved.

Curt is survived by his daughters, Jennifer Rogers and her husband, Douglas, of Richmond, Rhode Island, and Tanya Peckham and her husband, James, of Sumter, South Carolina; and his seven grandchildren, Joshua Rogers, Jacob Peckham, Kendall Peckham, Noah Rogers, Abigail Rogers, Spencer Peckham, and Samuel Peckham.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Carol Harness; his parents, Claude and Glenis Harness; and his brother, Rodney Harness.

Visiting hours will be held on Thursday, October 8, 2026, from 3:30 PM to 5:30 PM at Memorial Funeral Home, 375 Broadway, Newport. A funeral service with military honors will immediately follow in the funeral home at 5:45 PM.

For those unable to attend the service in person, a livestream will be available at https://link.memorial/RoyCurtHarness.

Donations in Curt's memory may be made to MOAA - Military Officers Association of America, MOAA - Ways to Give

Curt's family invites those who knew and loved him to join them in remembering a life defined by family, service, and a lasting dedication to the submarine community.