Hunter Isaiah Harris

Hunter Isaiah Harris was born on December 22, 2009, in Longview, Texas, and passed peacefully on September 19, 2026. Though Hunter’s life on earth was far too short, he made sure to make the most of every minute he was given. He lived boldly, loved deeply, and left an unforgettable mark on the lives of those fortunate enough to know him. Hunter grew up in Edom, Texas, and attended Van ISD through middle school. He was homeschooled during the last few years of his life, but he continued to maintain the lasting friendships he had formed with friends and classmates from Van. Hunter truly never knew a stranger. He could make friends anywhere he went and had a special place in his heart for those who needed someone in their corner. He was always willing to befriend the underdog, stand beside someone who felt alone, or bring home a person—or an animal—he thought needed saving. Beneath the “tough guy” exterior he sometimes liked to show the world was an incredibly tender heart. His compassion for others and his determination to make a difference will remain an important part of his legacy. Hunter was born with health issues that limited his ability to participate in contact sports and certain physical activities, but he never allowed those limitations to define him or slow him down. If anything, Hunter seemed determined to prove that life was meant to be lived without fear. His bravery—and more than a few daredevil stunts—kept his family on their toes and resulted in several childhood trips to the emergency room. That was Hunter: adventurous, fearless, curious, and always ready for whatever came next. His mind was constantly working. His interests and hobbies might change from one week to the next, but whatever captured his attention received his full enthusiasm. Hunter dreamed of becoming an entrepreneur like his dad, and those who knew his determination have no doubt that he would have found a way to turn his many ideas and dreams into reality. Among Hunter’s favorite things were his dirtbike, his truck, animals, and his girlfriend, Aryona. Hunter was fortunate to experience a very special kind of love at such a young age, and Aryona held an important place in his heart. His love for animals was just as unmistakable. If Hunter believed an animal needed help, chances were good that he would find a way to bring it home and try to save it. More than anything, Hunter wanted to leave his mark on this world and make his family proud. He accomplished both. His life may not have been measured in enough years, but it was filled with personality, courage, friendship, compassion, laughter, dreams, and love. The impact Hunter made cannot be measured by the amount of time he was here, but by the people whose lives are different because he was part of them. Hunter was a member of Heritage Trail Cowboy Church in Ben Wheeler, Texas, and loved the Lord. His family finds comfort in knowing that the faith Hunter carried during his life now welcomes him home. Hunter is survived by his loving aunt and uncle, Sherry and Calvin Franklin of Edom, who proudly raised him for the last 15 years; his father, Anthony Lester of Bullard; his mother, Amanda Harris of Chandler; his grandfather, Douglas Harris of Tyler; his brothers, Matthew Isaiah Smith of Edom, Brandon Franklin and wife Eryn of Edom, Austin Lester and wife Alexis of Bullard, Kamron Lester of Jacksonville, and Antonio Isaiah Ramirez of Chandler; his sister, Brittany Jones of Chandler; his nephews, Jaxon, Preston, Kyson, Eyston, and Wyston; his nieces, Alyssa and Marleigh; and numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, extended family members, and friends who loved him dearly. Hunter will be remembered for his fearless spirit, his larger-than-life personality, his compassion for others, and the enormous heart that those closest to him knew so well. He came into this world determined to make an impact, and he did. Hunter left his mark. He made his family proud. And he will be loved and remembered always