Ronald Jordan Harrell

November 17, 1956 - March 22, 2021

Ronald “Jordan” Harrell Ron passed away on March 22nd at the age of 64 years old. He was an athlete to the end fighting early onset Alzheimer’s for the last 10 years. His last competitive battle was for his children. Ron would tell you he had a wonderful life filled with cherished memories and laughter beginning in Edenton, North Carolina with Grandma Mary. Then discovering the love of basketball playing in High School, College, and in Germany. He met his Italian wife, Christine Marie Romano, in 1984 and stated it was fate, because he attended PS 13 in Brooklyn NY (Italian hood). He was a dedicated father to his “2 Black-Italians”, Ron Anthony Harrell and Dr. Haylee Christine Harrell. Ron adored his entire family filled with diversity; Black, Italian and Irish decent. Miracles do happen, he was able to meet all of his children before he left us; Jenni (Halauafu) Kaufusi and Joey Hew Len. He was immediately protective of his precious granddaughter—Taylah Kaufusi. He dedicated 30 years working in Juvenile Justice for the State of Utah. He retired in 2014 as the Program Director over the secured- care youth facilities throughout Utah. His philosophy was to invest in under-privileged kids and they would become successful members of society. When he retired, he was so happy to coach the West High School girls’ basketball team with his best friend of 45+ years Ronnie Stubbs (Brother Grubbs). Early onset Alzheimer’s is a devasting disease for families emotionally and financially. And now families have another concern as this disease is impacting minorities. The concern of quality care and equality for all; racism or bias treatment not be allowed #Blacklivesmatter. We were very fortunate to find Dr. Charles Fehlauer and the Auberge, Silverado staff who took remarkable care of Ron for the last 3 years. A special thanks of gratitude for all of their love and support! Ron will be taken home and buried in Edenton, North Carolina next to his grandparents. As Ron would sign off… Love to his favorite US President Obama… “Harrell out” *mic drop! *