Joseph Wilson Harris

Harris Joseph Wilson Harris "Joey", 35, from Gahanna, Ohio passed away Saturday, February 23, 2013 at his home. He is preceded in death by his maternal grandfather T. Emerson Reese, paternal grandmother Oma Harris and grandfather Clyde Harris, uncles Edward Reese, Howard Creed and Marvin Cremeans. He is survived by his mother, Dr. Judith A. Reese Harris and father, James Wilson Harris of Gahanna; brother, Charles Anthony "Tony" (LeAnna) Harris of Summerville, SC; niece, Brittany Barnhart; nephews, Noah Crouse, Ethan Harris and Kyler Harris of Summerville, SC.; maternal grandmother, Etta Mae Reese; uncles, Mike (Linda) Reese and Tim (Lisa) Reese; aunts, Carolyn Sue Cremeans, Phyllis Creed, Patsy Wingfield, Sharon (Robert) Rodes and Remona (Sam) Turner; great aunt, Marilyn Reese; as well as many cousins. Joseph was a great advocate for individuals with disabilities. He was the first special education wheelchair student to graduate from Gahanna Lincoln High School in 1998, as well as the first wheelchair student to test The Ohio State University's Virtual Reality Computer Program. He was also a member of the Gahanna Lincoln High School chorus and loved to speak in public. Joey participated in the Special Olympics for Bowling and had many trophies awarded. He was also a Cub Scout with the Jefferson Township troop. Joey met President Bill Clinton and Ohio Governor Dick Celeste and many dignitaries in his life. He loved arts and crafts and enjoyed sharing his work with the public. Joe was an employee of Arc Industries East workshop. He attended Camp Recreation Unlimited in Ashley, OH. Joey possessed a great love for his family and friends. He will truly be missed. Funeral services will be held at 1 p.m. Thursday, February 28, 2013 at SCHOEDINGER NORTHEAST CHAPEL, 1051 E. Johnstown Rd., where family will receive friends from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. Wednesday. Interment Maplewood Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Joseph Harris' name to Camp Recreation Unlimited, 7700 Piper Rd., Ashley, Ohio 43003. To share memories or condolences, please visit www.schoedinger.com.