So very glad we took the time to get together last time I was in Vegas. Rest in so very much earned peace, my friend. ♥️💔💜

I remember first meeting Katrina at a department meeting at UNLV pre-COVID. She sat in the corner on her laptop with a space heater blowing on her. After commenting on her space heater, I quickly learned we had two things in common: we were both Field Placement Coordinators in our programs - and we both did hot yoga!  We bonded instantly! We met for more meetings, our spirits always jived, and then COVID hit. We stayed in touch thru and after her retirement, then started meeting up in person more often, per my request. A part of me knew deep down that this remarkably wise, funny, strong, and driven woman was what I needed: a mentor, a muse, a mother-figure. Every year from then, I invited Katrina to be a guest speaker in my cultural diversity and humility class, as I knew she would bring the powerful punch we all needed to hear and feel, to keep us knowing, reflecting, and growing on both our personal and professional social justice journeys. Katrina and I talked marriage, yoga, retreats, kids, her grandson, books, racism, the College of Education, social media and influencers, Trump, stoicism, friends, plant-based eating, family, the list goes on and on. She was a guiding light for me; a dear friend who possessed the unique ability to be realistic and uplifting at the same time. I think of Katrina, and I see her smiling face. I can hear Katrina’s big laugh, and I can feel her warmth and strength from our many hugs.  
This photo was from a coffee date - just before hosting her grandson’s baby shower! “The luckiest boy,” I thought - Katrina was so excited! She was so happy to shift into her new role as “grandma” and help care for her precious beloved grandson. I am so saddened that he will not have the opportunity to know and be so very spoiled by Katrina. My deepest condolences to Katrina’s son and daughter who lost their mother, and to her dear husband who lost his companion and best friend. She truly made the world a better place. I will miss you deeply, Katrina.

Katrina was a truly beautiful soul whose warm and gentle spirit touched everyone around her. She always wore a welcoming smile and had a way of making every person feel instantly included.

What a blast! We killed it at karaoke. Katrina picked the song - black hole sun. I smile and think of you every time I hear it.

Katrina was such a beautiful soul whose smile illuminated the room. I will forever cherish our adventures and am so grateful the universe brought us together. What a gift to have had the pleasure to spend time with you.

Dr. Harris was one of my professors in the mental health counseling program. She was always very kind and attentive. I know her family, friends, former students, and clients will all miss her greatly. I am so sorry to hear of her passing and am praying for peace of mind to all her loved ones.

Katrina was a tremendous friend - I learned so many things from Katrina … we talked about all kinds of challenging topics, started a book club, digitally connected folks in fun ways during The Pandemic, went on some crazy adventures  … Most significantly, Katrina shared her family with me … I continue to be grateful for the love and genuine welcome displayed by Katrina’s family as I attended countless family gatherings. Katrina touched so many lives … I’m glad that I had a chance to spend time in her special sphere.

Katrina loved the beach!! Katrina and I shared two Cali beach trips with family and friends … special time together …

Zion - trail to Angel’s Landing - we both chickened out when we got to the chain handrail! I think we made the right call! But Katrina certainly looked the part! Super Hero!

Katrina loved to hike … to be in nature … Red Rock Canyon and Mt. Charleston were her backyard playgrounds … She shared with me that she enjoyed taking a solo hike on her birthday … Katrina introduced me to a number of trails … and I talked her into a number of hikes and other adventures in Utah, Arizona, California, and Nevada. She will always be close to my heart as I experience future hikes …

Katrina was my teacher and then my dear friend.  We laughed, lunched and attempted to start a business together. My heart breaks for her sweet husband, her children, her grandbaby and her parents and sister. 

She will be remembered as kind, generous, smart and feisty.

I’ll miss my friend.

Dr. Harris was my direct supervisor in grad school. The day we met I was so intimidated and swore she hated me! As time went on, we grew a wonderful relationship. She encouraged me and shaped me in to the best version of myself. We became friends post grad school and the level of respect and admiration I had for her was so strong. She was unbelievably driven, giving, inspirational and loved her work, passions, life and FAMILY, so much.

Some people leave an impression on your life, and others forever change the person you become. Dr. Harris was one of those rare people who did both.

Katrina was a great support and mentor on UNLV's alumni committee.  She was so positive and encouraged us to continue learning and serving our community. She will dearly be missed. 💜

OBITUARY

Dr. Katrina Rochelle Harris

February 4, 1961 – October 15, 2026

Palm Downtown Mortuary & Cemetery

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