Andre Harris Jr

Andre Ricardo Harris, Jr. was born on January 12, 1973, at George Washington Hospital in Washington, D.C., to Andre Ricardo Harris, Sr. and Janie Gale Bennett-Harris. He was the second of four children and the first-born son, lovingly known as “Rock”, “Fatman”, “The Gentle Giant”and “Jah” names that perfectly captured both his strength and his spirit.

Andre’s faith was a guiding force throughout his life. Baptized at an early age, he later rededicated his life to Christ as an adult and became an active member of the men’s choir at Central Union Mission. His compassion extended far beyond his immediate community; he devoted his time to missionary work, traveling abroad to assist with disaster relief efforts and to serve those less fortunate. Giving was not something he did, it was simply who he was.

Andre also found joy in giving back in unique and memorable ways. Each Christmas season, he became “Santa Claus” at Beltway Plaza, bringing smiles to countless children. Dressed in his Santa suit, he also delivered hot, homemade meals to shelters throughout Washington, D.C. on Christmas Day, embodying the true spirit of generosity and love.

Before beginning his career with Piedmont at Reagan National Airport, Andre spent time in New York immersed in the music industry. He worked with The Source Magazine, where he was known for driving the iconic Source Hummer, distributing CDs, apparel, and promotional items while connecting with the community. He had a passion for uplifting others and took pride in supporting local, up-and-coming artists. He later worked with Violator Records under Chris Lighty as a Lead Street Team Producer, collaborating with a host of well-known rappers and DJs and helping bring visibility to emerging talent.

He was educated in the Prince George’s County Public School System and graduated from Parkdale High School in 1991. A standout athlete, Andre excelled on the football field, earning a place on the Maryland All-State Team and receiving multiple scholarship offers. He chose to continue both his academic and athletic journey at Morgan State University, where he earned a Bachelor’s degree in Communications.

Andre had a presence you couldn’t ignore, in the best way possible. Known as the life of the party, he had a gift for making people laugh and feel at ease. His sense of humor and larger-than-life personality earned him the title of Class Clown during his senior year of high school, a title he carried with pride and lived out effortlessly for the rest of his life.

He was preceded in death by his grandmothers, Lucille V. McJimpsey and Angelene Bennett, and his godfather, George “Buddy” Johnson.

Andre leaves to cherish his memory a loving and devoted family: father, Andre R. Harris, Sr.; mother, Janie G. Bennett-Harris; sister, Ivy T. Harris-Carter; brother, LeVar K. Harris; sister, Tiona J. Harris; daughter, Keonna Smith; beloved grandson, Ezra Jenkins; nephews, Timothy L. Carter, Jr. and Jayden D. Harris; great-nephew, Timothy L. Carter III “Tre”; godmother, Carolivia Herron; uncle, Rodney McJimpsey (Pam); along with a host of aunts, uncles, cousins, and a multitude of friends whose lives were touched by his kindness, humor, and unwavering love.

Andre’s legacy is one of faith, laughter, service, and love. Though his physical presence will be deeply missed, the joy he brought, the lives he uplifted, and the love he gave so freely will continue to echo in the hearts of all who knew him.