Jason's obituary
With heavy hearts and profound sadness, we announce the unexpected passing of Jason Demetrius Harris, a beloved and devoted father, brother, uncle, and friend.
Jason was born on September 9, 1980, in Pasadena, California, to John and Nadine Harris. The family spent their early years in Pasadena before settling in Mid-Town Los Angeles.
He attended Saturn Street Elementary, Emerson Junior High, University High School, later transferring to Hamilton High School, where he graduated in 1999.
Since Jason was a child, he had a deep love for the game of football. His athletic talent earned him MVP honors and accolades at all his high schools, a testament to his dedication and charisma on the field. After high school, Jason went on to play at West LA college as well as on the Semi Pro team the LA All Stars until an injury ended his football career.
Jason met Shannel Walden in December of 2001 while working as a dancer at the Right Track under the name "Sin Say Tion." As the love between them grew, they decided to move in together. Jason and Shannel were married on January 30th, 2003, at the Beverly Hills Courthouse. Together, on December 20, 2006, they welcomed their son, JaShawn Harris, into the world. Jason was a proud and loving father. Though he and Shannel separated in 2015, they remained close friends and devoted co-parents till his untimely passing.
Jason’s zest for life extended far beyond the field and stage. He was a lover of movies, especially Top Gun and Days of Thunder. He had a deep appreciation for all genres of music, including R&B, Gospel, Hip Hop, and boy could he sing. He also found joy in outdoor adventures, whether biking to the beach, skateboarding, boogie boarding, or riding his motorcycles. Oftentimes, you'd find him working on either his motorcycle or Chevy Camaro. You could say he really had a need for speed.
As a man of strong faith and believer of God, Jason was a dedicated member of Church of the Living God Temple #44. There, he served faithfully in many roles, including a member of several choirs often as a lead vocalist, an usher, and held many positions within the (YPPU) Young People's Progressive Union. His commitment to his church community reflected the compassion and light he brought into every space he entered. His close personal relationship with God cultivated by his praying Mother and Grandmother never faltered through all his trials and tribulations in this life. Jason had a smile that could light up a room and a heart full of kindness, generosity, and a sly sense of humor that endeared him to all who knew him. His bright spirit will forever illuminate the lives he touched.
Jason leaves to mourn: his beloved son JaShawn Harris; (Ex-wife) Shannel Harris; Brother and sister in Law Derrick and Caitlin Chaverst; Sister Diane Harris; Nieces and Nephews: Brenndon Olson, Nyla, Faye, and Tye Chaverst and a host of relatives and friends.
Jason was preceded in death by his Mother Nadine Harris(2024), Father John Harris(2003), and “Grandma Pots”(2002) and Lizzie Mae Chaverst (2021)
A celebration of Jason’s life will be held on Friday, July 25, 2025, at 6:00 PM, at Church of the Living God Temple #44, located at 9800 S Western Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90047.
Jason’s memory will be treasured forever, and his legacy of love, laughter, and strength will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.