Eugene Scott Harris Jr.

Eugene Harris, Jr. of Colorado Springs, CO departed this life on September 15, 2011. He was welcomed into Heaven by his great grandmother Mottree Gibson; his grandmother Hazel June Harris; his cousin William ‘Billy’ Varner; his uncle Milton 'Mickey' Ashley; and aunt, Wilma Jean Holloway.

Eugene was born on August 2, 1988, in Houston, Texas to Tonia Hill and Eugene Harris. He was Jameel’s big brother. He attended Colorado Springs schools and graduated from Mitchell High School in 2006.

Eugene’s life story begins much like that of an angel who came to Earth with broken wings. He spent many days in the hospital and dr.’s offices as a young child. Despite his pain, he still laughed at his parents’ tummy tickles and hugs. With his parents’ persistence and God’s hand on his shoulder, Gene was able to strengthen his tiny, fragile body. He grew up to become a tall, healthy and handsome free-spirited young man with a smile that just lit the room. Moreover, he had become an independent man.

Gene was very passionate about music and movies. He had a very impressive collection of cds and dvds. He also liked wrist watches; the bigger and the blingier the watch, the better! He also enjoyed spending quality time with those closest to him. He loved to hear his grandmother laugh, often at his mother’s expense. Gene shared a special, undeniable bond with his father and brother. Gene loved to watch movies with his dad and listen to the latest music releases with Jameel.

Gene’s parents and brother were fiercely protective of him. Not so much to protect him from himself but to shield his generous heart and spirit from outsiders who dared to take advantage of him. This sense of nurturing was present in Eugene’s own personality. Just recently, he spent time caring for his mother, holding her hand to help her cross the street as they ventured out together.

Gene’s life story has not ended. It has resumed. Now that God’s angel has nurtured and loved, his Heavenly Father has called him back home.

Eugene is survived by his mother Tonia Hill, his father Eugene Harris of Colorado Springs; his brothers Jameel Harris and Andre Taylor also of Colorado Springs. He leaves behind his maternal grandparents Mottis Ashley of Colorado Springs, and Oscar Magee of Harvey, IL; and his paternal grandparent Robert Harris of Canton, OH. He will be dearly missed by his stepmother, Stacey Burtiago and stepbrothers Domianic and Marcel Burtiago, all of Colorado Springs; his closest friends, Stephanie and Jackie; and a host of aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends.