Ethel Harris

Obituary For Ethel Harris

Ethel Harris graced the world on May 8,1951 in Troy, Alabama to the union of Joe and Lera Harris. Ethel's journey led her to Canton, Ohio, where she made her home and touched the lives of countless individuals with her warmth, laughter, and unwavering love. Ethel boldly entered eternity to be with the Lord on May 11, 2025, after her brief but valiant battle against cancer.

Ethel is a proud 1970 alumna of Canton McKinley Senior High School. Upon graduation she attended Hamrick Truck Driving School where she successfully obtained her Commercial Driver License credentials and certification. Ethel carved out her path in the transportation industry, all the while nurturing her true passions.

As a dedicated representative of the ABCD Transportation Company, Ethel provided convenient door-to-door services with access to transportation via wheelchair vans and ambulatory vehicles for its clients. She skillfully and patiently empowered those she served with mobility within the community until her retirement.

Ethel was a loving soul whose warmth and laughter touched the lives of many. Whether she was whipping up delightful meals that filled the air with love or dancing to the rhythm of life, Ethel’s spirit was always alive and vibrant, inviting everyone she met to join in the joy of the moment.

Faith was the foundation of Ethel's life. Her spiritual journey was ignited at Mt. Calvary Baptist Church, where she was baptized and filled with the Holy Ghost, carrying that flame of spiritual warmth into every relationship and encounter. Her unwavering devotion shaped not only her life but also the lives of those fortunate enough to know her.

A respected elder of her village, Ethel created a haven of kindness and joy, mothering not only her offspring, but many other children who found comfort and care in her nurturing embrace. She had a passion for life that was infectious, brightening the lives of everyone fortunate enough to cross her path. Ethel's generous heart and undeniable zest for life will be deeply missed, but her spirit will live on in the hearts of those she loved.

Ethel entrusts cherished memories with her children Corlin Osteen, Brandon Harris, Marcia Harris, Angelena Harris and Special Harris, along with her bonus children Opal (Ben) Pleasant, Takeitha Edwards, Shanna (Carl) Lawson, Cedric Edwards II, Kimberly (Kendall) Smith, Brian “Camp” Camper, Wakina (Yuri) Smith, Victoria Nelson, Vanessa Nelson, and Jermaine Pleasant.

Ethel is lovingly remembered by her sister Mary Dotson, lifetime companion Cedric Edwards Sr., best friends Wesley Jamerson and Debra Mackey. The mantel of love has been placed firmly upon the shoulders of her grandchildren Javis Bell, Cor’lyn Osteen, Techan Palmer, as well as her special niece Lashawn Burt, special nephew Terry (Melissa) Burt, special cousin Calvin Tartt, along with a cadre of great grandchildren, nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.

As Ethel’s faith became sight, upon crossing the celestial shore she was reunited with her parents, daughter Shasta Edwards, grandson Tullis White Sr. and best friend Loretta Turner, all who preceded her in eternal life.

In honoring Ethel’s life, the family invites the community to join them as she is honored and remembered. There will be a public viewing on Wednesday, May 21, 2025, at the Redeemed Acts Ministries Church, 1323 Lincoln Way NW, Massillon, Ohio at 11:00 AM. The Celebration of Life Services will begin at 12 noon with host pastor, Elder Teisha Askew, presiding as the officiant and Rev. Gabe Norris of Massillon Wesleyan Methodist Church as the eulogist.

As we come together to remember Ethel, let us reflect upon her laughter and love—just as she would have wanted. In the hearts of many, she will forever remain a guiding star, illuminating our paths with the warmth of her presence.

At this time of intimate need and personal loss, the family of Ethel Harris elected to entrust the Ministry of Comfort & Care, along with Transitional After-Care Arrangements to the J. E. Washington Funeral Services, 1617 Third Street N.E. Canton OH 330-454-3901