Chief Jessie Dan Harris Jr.

Jessie Dan Harris, affectionately known to many as “JD” was born July 7, 1944 to Jessie and Meriller Harris. He was the first born of 5 amazing children. Unfortunately, his mother, Meriller, fell ill, but before she passed away, she was able to instill hard work, integrity, passion, and wisdom. Despite Jessie’s focus shifting from school to her, she made him promise that no matter what, he would finish high school. JD did that and more. His resilience, despite varying hardships, and faith that “if he could believe it, he could achieve it”, motivated him to graduate from Bethune High School in 1963 and go on to attend Grambling State University.

Although born and raised in Shreveport, Louisiana, JD knew he wanted a better life for him and his family. With this, he made the decision to move to Houston, TX in 1964. There, JD displayed the ability to master varying trades from working at Texas Electric, being a part of the kitchen staff at Hermann Hospital, owning a cleaning business, becoming a licensed barber, and even a Domino Master.

Ultimately, in 1968, the Houston Fire Department was where his dream and true calling began. JD diligently worked up the ranks from EMT to Firefighter to Fire Inspector to his primary career goal of Fire Chief. He was one of Houston’s finest, literally and figuratively, having received many accolades for his hard work and dedication to the force. Rounding out JD’s career, he combined his passion for the fire department and helping people by starting a fire inspection business after he retired with 35 years of service in 2004.

The Houston Fire Department not only created a life-long career for JD, but it would also be where he met the love of his life, Annie Irene Harris. They married in May of 1986 and enjoyed 38 years of love, family and travel, until she transitioned to be with the Lord in March of 2023.

Another large part of JD’s life was his love of the Lord and ministry. At a young age, he accepted Christ at Perrin Street Church of Christ in Shreveport, Louisiana. As an adult he was active in prison ministry and preaching on occasion. One of his proudest achievements was leading 10 souls to Christ while completing missionary work in Guyana. He was a beloved long-time member of Sugarland Church of Christ in Sugarland, Texas.

Jessie Harris leaves his legacy to his children; Jessie Harris Jr, Rodney Harris, Veronica Williams (Timothy), Ricky Harris (Shelby), bonus children Sheronica Hill (Walter), Tameka Hacket, Christopher Howell (Devonna), Bishop Ingo A Beard, Gregory Tyrone Beard (TaSandra). His Siblings; Pearlie McKee, Fannie Rose (Jesse), Freddie Harris, James Harris (Linda). His Grandchildren; Derrick, Anthony, Khadejiah, Justin, Christopher, bonus grand children Ashley, Aundrea, Kayleigh, Janie, Yvonne, Arianna, Khristopher, Kori, Tiaja, Tiara, Devon, Chris Jr., Brandon, Krystoya and Leighton. 28 Great grand Kids and a host of family and friends.

Isaiah 41:10 (NKJV)

Fear not, for I am with you;

Be not dismayed, for I am your God.

I will strengthen you,

Yes, I will help you,

I will uphold you with My righteous right hand.