Kevontae Harris

Born on December 3, 2000, Kevontae entered the world as a fighter. Arriving prematurely and weighing just over one pound, he overcame tremendous odds from the very beginning. His strength, resilience, and determination would become defining qualities throughout his life.

Kevontae graduated from Forest Park High School in 2023, an accomplishment that reflected his perseverance and the support of those who loved him. He was known for his infectious smile, kind heart, and joyful spirit. Anyone fortunate enough to know Kevontae experienced his genuine warmth, compassion, and ability to make others feel welcome. He had a gift for touching lives simply by being himself.

A devoted sports enthusiast, Kevontae could recite an impressive array of facts and statistics about professional athletes and teams. Whether cheering on his favorite players or sharing sports trivia with family and friends, his passion was unmistakable. He also found joy in playing basketball and football, dancing, riding his scooter, spending time outdoors, stepping into the big brother role for all the kids in his life and attending church. His enthusiasm for life and the simple things brought happiness to everyone around him.

Kevontae was preceded in death by his beloved maternal grandmother, Valarie Jones; his paternal grandfather, Ernest Holmes Sr.; his uncle, Eric Holmes; and his great-uncle, Arthur Jones.

He leaves to cherish his memory his birth mother, Jessica Harris; his birth father, Ernest Holmes; his stepmother, Priscilla Holmes; his siblings, Kevin Cheeks, Manuel, and Marlita; his great-aunt, Sharon Watkins Jones, along with his chosen family, his foster parents, Anita Bowers and Michael Tart, whose love and guidance were an important part of his life; bonus siblings, Tasha, Tyler, Lynsey, Katie, Russ, Porker, Liz, Codie, Kylie, and Casey Bowers; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, extended family members, and many cherished friends whose lives were forever touched by his kindness and love.

Though Kevontae's time on earth was far too short, the love he shared, the joy he spread, and the courage he displayed from his very first breath will never be forgotten. His legacy lives on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.

"Those we love don't go away. They walk beside us every day—unseen, unheard, but always near”.