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 obedience and love.

One of Donel’s greatest ambitions was to become a counselor—particularly for those battling the heartbreaking disease of addiction. 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. 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, First Cousin Magnus Harris-Duruji(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, and Uncle Bob Braswell

He leaves behind to cherish his memory his fiancé, Tayla Steward; his beloved children, De’Mar’geon Harris,Denyah Harris De'marion Johnson, Sir’iah Harris and Caesar K. Walls IV, China, Howard, Malaysha, Bobby, Thee Hezekiah and his precious grandchild, Serenity. 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 Uncle, Christina Harris-Duruji, and Magnus Duruji,Uncle Marvin Harris, Aunt Sabrina Braswell. Nephew Deuce, Nieces Adryne, Michaela, Maleah Maqenzie.

Donel is further survived by the Devoted Mother of his children Marsha Johnson, Ashley, Deanna and Alita. Cousins, Shannon Harris-Johnson and her three children Isaiah, Tamron Jr, and Camron, Cousin Cason and his children Nevaeh and King. Cousin Zachary Harris-Duruji, Cousin's Dustin, Kevin, David, Jarome, Charise, Gonja, Tiera, Phillip, and Eligah. Brother/Close Friends Christopher Dean(Eight), Jarome Webb Jr.

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 with the Lord he so faithfully served. His voice, his wisdom, and his compassion will continue to echo in the lives he touched.

Services to honor Donel D. Harris will be held at Jordan Baptist Church, located at 1825 Woodland Avenue, Columbus, Ohio, on January 24, 2026, at 2:30 p.m. A balloon release will directly follow the memorial service. To conclude the day in fellowship and remembrance, family and loved ones are invited to gather for dinner at Golden Corral, 4750 E. Main Street, Whitehall, Ohio 43213, as we continue honoring Donel’s life and legacy together.

Though he is no longer with us in body, Donel’s light remains—guiding, comforting, and reminding us to live with purpose, faith, and love.