Obituary of Albert J. Harris

Albert Jerome Harris, affectionately known as Jerry, was born in Mount Holly, New Jersey on September 6, 1952 to Wilbert and Alda Harris. He was the third of five children, and grew up in a home filled with love, bustling activity, and music. Jerry attended Camden City schools, where he began playing the saxophone at Parkside Elementary School. His musical talent was apparent right away; he was a truly gifted musician, and delighted all who listened to his smooth, expert playing style. He was known as “The Ice Man,” because he would command the stage just by standing in one spot, one foot crossed in front of the other, and effortlessly mesmerize the crowd with his solos. Jerry performed professionally with The Italics, Executive Suite, and more. His playing can be heard on “The Horse,” the classic marching band song by Cliff Nobles & Co. Jerry worked in the family’s exterminating business with his father, Wilbert, and his uncle Jesse. He was also teacher’s assistant at Forest Hill Elementary School, a courier on Wall Street in New York, and a chef before becoming disabled. He completed a culinary arts certificate and served as a personal chef for Ivana Trump in Atlantic City. He was known for his generosity, sense of humor, and expertise in the kitchen. His delicious meals were highly coveted among family and friends - especially his famous fried chicken and french fries made from scratch! In spite of the many obstacles and setbacks he faced during his life, Jerry was determined to focus on the positive and always maintained an upbeat, friendly, and happy demeanor. His smile, complete with sparkling green eyes, could light up a room, and usually did. He had a strong relationship with God, read his Bible and prayed regularly, and was baptized and re-dedicated his life to the Lord in 2011, at Saint John’s United Methodist Church in West Berlin, New Jersey. Jerry was pre-deceased by his parents, Alda and Wilbert Harris; his son, Antony Jamal Harris, and his brother, Kevin Harris. He leaves to cherish his memory: daughter, Tamika Harris Brown (Eugene); sons, Erik and Joshua Krajicek; “the sisters,” Debbie and Renee’; brother, La’Mont (Marcy); granddaughter, Jessica Stokes; one great-granddaughter; two, great-grandsons; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, family, and friends.