The Kareem Harris Obituary

The news of Kareem Harris’s passing has struck the city of New Orleans with a “heartbreaking” intensity. Affectionately known as “Smiling Kareem,” he was a “vibrant and beautiful” 19-year-old whose “meaning and warmth” could light up any room. To lose such a “vibrant spirit”—a 2024 graduate of Livingston Collegiate Academy whose “joyful personality” and “bright heart” served as a “beacon of light” to his peers—is a reality that has left his loved ones searching for comfort in the midst of “indescribable” sorrow.

Kareem was celebrated for his “eye-catching” spirit and the “simple joy” he brought to those around him through his role as a “jokester” who loved making people laugh. He lived with an “unwavering spirit,” having recently worked at the very landmark where his life was tragically cut short. As his family—including his parents Shantel Simmons and Stanley Harris Jr.—navigates this “profoundly sad” time, they are leaning on the “vibrant and beautiful” memories of a young man who was a constant source of “meaning and warmth” and encouragement. His passing is a “heartbreaking” reminder of the preciousness of every life and the urgent call for a “vibrant and beautiful” change in the community.

A “Vibrant Heart” and Cherished Son

Kareem Harris’s 19 years were a masterclass in “vibrant beauty” and sincere connection. Those who had the “privilege of knowing him” describe a “good kid” with a “bright heart”—someone who was a source of constant “meaning and warmth” to his siblings, Kia, Kiyah, and Rashad, and a devoted uncle to his niece, Mia. He reminded us all of the importance of an “unwavering spirit” and the value of a courageous, generous heart. Her absence is a heartache that will be felt throughout Louisiana for years to come, yet his legacy of “vibrant spirit” remains a guiding light for his loved ones.

The “outpouring of love and prayers” from the New Orleans community is a direct reflection of the love Kareem sowed during his journey. He was a “beacon of light” who taught those around him that the true measure of a person is found in the “meaning and warmth” they bring to their family and friends. His story is one of “vibrant beauty” and “quiet and powerful” resilience—a legacy that will continue to guide his family as they honor his memory and find peace in the “vibrant and beautiful” life he led before his “profoundly sad” departure.

Honoring Kareem’s Memory: Official Obituary and Service Details

As the New Orleans community gathers to navigate this “heartbreaking loss,” the focus remains on honoring Kareem’s remarkable journey and supporting his family during this time of “profound sadness.” The “indescribable” weight of such a sudden loss is a burden no family should carry alone. According to official obituary details from Professional Funeral Services, the community came together to celebrate Kareem’s life.

Service Information for Kareem “Smiling Kareem” Harris:

• Celebration of Life: Saturday, January 31, 2026, at Professional Funeral Services, 1449 N. Claiborne Ave, New Orleans, LA.

• Interment: Private.

• Tribute: Family and friends have been planting memorial trees as a living testament to his “vibrant spirit” and “unwavering spirit.”

We extend our deepest and most heartfelt condolences to the family and friends of Kareem Harris. His story did not end at Dooky Chase’s; it continues through every “vibrant and beautiful” memory held by those who loved him and the “bright light” of his spirit that will remain in our hearts forever. Rest in peace, Kareem; your presence was a blessing to New Orleans, and your spirit will remain a guiding light for your family and our community forever.