Funeral services for DeMario Tovel Harris Jr., 17, of Troy, who passed away Sept. 27, 2014, will be at 2 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 4, at Sartain Hall at University with Superintendent Fisher Cook officiating.

Burial will be at Antioch Baptist Church Cemetery in Banks under the direction of George F. Grubbs Funeral Home.

DeMario was born Oct. 7, 1996, in Harvey, Illinois, the son of DeMario T. Harris Sr. and Shanika Jones and was baptized in Christ. DeMario had so much love in his heart and a smile that would light up a room. He had a genuine love and closeness for his family; a passion to excel; and a true devotion to the game of football. He was known as “Squirrel” for his speed and energy on the field.

We wish we could put into words the true sense of loss that everyone who knew him feels. He made everyone around him smile with his kindness and gentleman-like mannerisms.

DeMario was a loving son, brother and grandchild. He leaves behind many affectionate and fond memories with his father, DeMario T. (Komesha) Harris Sr.; his mother, Shanika (Rilius) Jones Sr.; his brothers, Demeris, Kaleel, Devin, Jaquabian, Rilius Jr., and Kenora; his sisters, Chevy, Kamari, Jamesha, and Myiana; his grandparents, Arzellia (Juanita) Motley of Troy, Patricia Harris of Phoenix, IL, and Diann Veal of Harvey, IL; and his extended family, uncles, aunts, cousins, other relatives and special friends.

Pallbearers will be Mondaris Dixon, Austin Ingram, Christin London, Richard McBryde, Stephon Moore, Demarkus Siler and Marquise Simpson; honorary pallbearers will be Demeris Harris, DeVon Harris, Devin Harris, Kenora Veal and Jaquabian Mays.