Today, we gather with heavy hearts, yet with gratitude, to honor and celebrate the life of Donel D. Harris—a man whose presence was steady, whose heart was generous, and whose life reflected purpose, faith, and service.

Donel’s journey began on June 17, 1981, in Columbus, Ohio, born to Jaqueline Harris-Jackson and Douglas E Brown. From the very beginning, Donel carried a spirit that was deeply rooted in connection. He was an active participant in both his family and his community—never content to stand on the sidelines, always expressing a genuine desire to help, to be involved, and to uplift others.

He was a man of integrity, wise beyond his years, and intentional in both word and action. Donel had a way of speaking that was direct yet loving, firm yet compassionate. He cared deeply about every person he encountered, and that care was never superficial—it was sincere, consistent, and grounded in his faith.

Donel dedicated his life to the Lord and publicly affirmed his faith through baptism. His spiritual home included Greater Christ Temple and Rock City Church, where he would gather family to join for service. He was an advocate for the Word of God, unafraid to speak truth, and committed to walking in integrity,and love.

One of Donel’s greatest ambitions was to become a counselor—He carried a deep compassion for people who were struggling, and he believed wholeheartedly that healing and a new way of living were possible. Serving people was not simply something Donel did—it was who he was. He stepped into that role effortlessly, guided by faith and fueled by purpose.

Donel was deeply loved and widely respected amongst his peers His impact stretched across generations, friendships, church communities, and family lines. Though his time with us feels far too short, his legacy is rich and enduring.

Donel was preceded in death by his Father Douge E Brown, Father Donald Braswell, Cousin Magnus(Boo), Maternal grandfather Frank R Harris, Paternal Grandparents Betty and Lewis Brown. Grandfather Bishop Sam Hughes, Maternal great-grandparents Reverend Jack Harris, Evangelist Elizabeth Harris, Cecil Johnson, and Gale Johnson, Great Uncle-Charlie Johnson, and Uncle Bob Braswell

He leaves behind to cherish his memory His beloved children, De’MarJeon Harris , Sirriah Harris , Da’Niya Harris De'marion Johnson, and Caesar K. Walls His precious grandchild , Sirenity Darthard. fiancé, Tayla Steward Along with her children, China, Howard, Malaysha, Bobby, Thee Hezekiah. The Devoted Mother of his children Marsha Johnson, Ashley, Deanna and Alita. He is survived by grandmothers Saundra Harris, and Juanita Huges his mother Jaqueline Harris-Jackson; step father Scott Jackson, Step Mother Rosalind Braswell. Brothers, Jeremiah, Garcia and Micheal. Sisters Levonna, Jessica, Brianna, Aareana, Michaela, Cheyla, Olivia, and Sherry. His maternal Aunt and Uncles Christina, Magnus,Marvin Sabrina. Nephew Deuce, Nieces Adryne, Michaela, Maleah Maqenzie.

Cousins, Shannon, and her three children Isaiah, Tamron Jr, and Camron, Cousin Zachary, Cousin Cason and his children Nevaeh and King,

and a Host of many more Family members and close friends including the Harris Family, Johnsons, Watsons, Hines, Robinsons, Washingtons, Ramseys Braswells, Hughes, Bowmans, Tillmans, Clarks, Millers, Williams

Deans, Wallaces, Webbs and many more.

To know Donel was to witness faith in motion. He lived intentionally, loved deeply, and served wholeheartedly. Though we mourn his physical absence, we take comfort in knowing that his spirit rests