Ginell Harris

Obituary For Ginell Harris

With love in our hearts and profound gratitude for her life, we remember Ginell Harris—a woman of radiant warmth, deep devotion, and unwavering strength. Affectionately called a "year-round Christmas tree" by her daughter and lovingly known by some of the family as a "Sparkling Star," Ginell passed away peacefully on April 21, 2025, at Gilchrist Howard County Hospice in Maryland, just one day after Easter—a holiday she adored for the joy of dressing up in full elegance, and perhaps for one last chance to do so.

Born on July 29, 1949, in Youngstown, Ohio, Ginell was the beloved daughter of Rosie Marion Bridges and Jonathan Heard. She graduated from East High School in 1967, beginning a life defined by purpose, ambitions and perseverance including a modeling career. Before moving to Kentucky later in life, she established a catering and crafting business known throughout her community for exquisite wedding coordination, custom wedding cakes, handmade crafts and that peach cobbler baked with pure love, that reflected her creativity and attention to detail. Her talents, entrepreneurial spirit, and immense generosity left a sustaining impression upon all who were blessed to know her.

Ginell began her professional career in dietary services at the former Northside Hospital in Youngstown, where she served with dedication and care. After relocating to Louisville, Kentucky, she continued to bring her energy and commitment to her role as Kitchen Manager at Jewish Hospital, where she later retired. Even in retirement, she remained active and engaged, organizing events and celebrations for the residents of Hillebrand House (KY). She worked tirelessly, gave selflessly, and sacrificed nearly everything to ensure her daughter could succeed. Her love was expressed in words and shown through action—through every job she held, every dream she put on hold, and every hour she gave with unwavering faith that her devotion would lift the next generation higher.

Ginell's love for family and tradition shone most during the holidays. Christmas was her favorite—an occasion to gather her loved ones close, decorate with joy, and bask in the glow of togetherness. Easter, too, held a special place in her heart—not only for its spiritual meaning but also for the chance to dress in her most refined and radiant ensembles. She carried herself with style and dignity every day, often accenting her look with lashes and makeup that reflected her playful elegance.

Her life was also deeply rooted in faith. A dedicated member of Fellowship Baptist Church in Youngstown and later Cable Baptist Church in Louisville, she continued to tithe faithfully long after moving away, a quiet reflection of her enduring commitment to God and community.

Above all, Ginell was the matriarch of her family—a pillar of strength, wisdom, and unconditional love. She was a devoted mother to Jennifer Harris and a loving grandmother to Christopher (CJ) Tanks Jr., the joy of her life and spiritual twin. Ginell's circle of love extended far and wide, including her cherished sister and lifelong best friend Peggy Johnson of Kentucky; brother Lloyd Bridges of Indiana; niece LeAmber Bridges of New York; nephew George Ware III of Youngstown, who was more like a brother than a nephew, and nephew Larry Bridges Jr. of Nevada.

Ginell shared an enduring friendship with Louella Heard of Kentucky and held dear the memory of her beloved friend Clarence Davis of Youngstown, whose presence brought laughter, fun and a love of fashion throughout her life. Ginell is also survived by a cadre of nieces, nephews, and extended family members who will carry forward her legacy of love.

As Ginell’s faith became sight, she was reunited with the ancestors, which includes among others her parents, brother Larry Bridges Sr., sister Juanita Tillery, nephew Ronald Johnson, and brother-in-law Roy Johnson Sr., all who preceded her into eternity.

In honor of Ginell's radiant spirit, the family invites guests to wear vibrant, joyful colors—filling the room with the light, warmth, and color she brought to every moment. A public visitation will be held on Friday, May 2, 2025, at 10:00 AM, followed The Celebration of Ginell’s Life services at 11:00 AM in the chapel of the J.E. Washington Funeral Home, 2234 Glenwood Ave, Youngstown, OH 44511, with her cousin Elder Marcus Grace officiating.

Following the committal ceremony, Ginell will be lovingly laid to rest in the manicured meadows of the Tod Homestead Cemetery.

Our star was born under life's pressure and radiant heat—a force shaped by challenges, refined by perseverance and powered by love. Though our sparkling star has departed this earth, the light she gave continues to shine in all who knew her. Even after her flame has dimmed, her brilliance endures—echoing in every heart she touched and forever reshaping the universe she moved through with brilliance, warmth, and quiet strength.

You can share pictures, memories and donations at: https://everloved.com/life-of/ginell-harris/

At this time of intimate need and personal loss, the family of Ginell Harris elected to entrust the Ministry of Comfort & Care, along with Transitional After-Care Arrangements to the J. E. Washington Funeral Services, 2234 Glenwood Avenue, Youngstown, Ohio, 330.782.8500.