Joel Harris, Jr. was born to the union of the late Joel Harris, Sr., and Naomi Adams Harris on March 7,1961. He was the middle child and only son. He became an angel in heaven on May 16, 2023.
Joel was affectionately known as Little Joey by immediate family and then in 1987 became Uncle Joey. Joel graduated from Woodward High School in 1979 and enlisted in the US Marine Corps. He served four years, was a Rifle expert and travelled the world.
Joel had an abiding faith in God. He was a faithful and spiritual man. He visited several churches and read his bible daily. He kept two bibles by his bedside.
Joel was an exceptional brother, brother-in-law, uncle, great uncle, friend, confidant, and Bengals fan! His smile, laugh, and growl will be missed by all and especially his family. We knew he loved us because he was at births, graduations, movies, games, birthdays, holidays, and all family functions. Joel never told us no, unless he had to be at the Prospect House, then we were scheduled in.
Joel was an excellent chef, and completed a culinary program at Cincinnati State and earned an associate degree in pursuit of becoming a Realtor Adjuster. Joel was also just as skilled with tools. Joel was the world’s best handyman, to his family and all who knew him. He renovated and repaired countless properties and projects.
Joel encountered some life challenges which became his life’s passion. He was an inspiration, support, counselor, advocate, and educator for Alcoholics Anonymous and specifically, The Prospect House.
While Joel was officially maintenance at The Prospect House, for the past 20+ years, Joel never met a stranger and always stretched out a helping hand. He mentored and sponsored many whose life’s course was forever altered.
Joel’s passing will leave a tear in the hearts of his two sisters, Valencia Harris Brown (Vincent Brown), Alicia Murray (Otis Grey). Nephews Michael V. Brown (D’Ana), Adam A. Brown, Steven Goode, and niece Amya J. Murray, great nephews, Kayson M. Brown, Kylan W. Brown, and Caden A. Brown. Brother-in-law Mark Brown. Cousins Raymond Harris, Jr., Angela Dickerson, Earl Brown, Jr., Patrick Brown, Francine Brown, Howard Jones, Gregory Jones and Lawrence Jones, and a host more of cousins. And his Prospect House special friends/family.
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