Isiah Louis Harkless Jr

It is with deep sadness and yet profound gratitude for a life well-lived that we announce the passing of Isiah Louis Harkless Jr, who departed this world peacefully at home on August 18, 2026, at the age of 72. Born on May 26, 1954, in Baltimore, Maryland, Isiah was a beacon of love, faith, and dedication to all who knew him. Isiah was the beloved son of the late Isiah Louis and Sophia Lillian Harkless Sr, who, along with his sisters Beverly Johnson and Karen Baldwin, brothers Keith Sr, Gerald, and Damon Harkless, and mother-in-law Barbara Jones, predeceased him. He leaves behind a family who cherished him deeply—his devoted wife of 30 years, Lynn Harkless; his children, Brian Thompson, Chanell Thompson, April Dandridge, and Brittany Harkless; son-in-law Tavon Dandridge; and his adored grandchildren Brian Jr, Daryon, Keith, Michael, La'Trell, Amari, Loghan, Breon, and Brandon. Isiah's legacy continues through his great-grandchildren, Faith and Karter, and his loving siblings, Daniel and Sharen Harkless. His close friends, Pastor Jeffery and Lady Sherri Ball, also hold fond memories of Isiah's vibrant spirit. In 1979, Isiah welcomed his first child, April, and with the birth of Brittany in 1990, his family began to grow. In 1997, he met Lynn Thompson, and their love story blossomed into a deep and enduring partnership. On July 19, 2022, Isiah and Lynn sealed their love in marriage, a union that brought him the joy of inheriting his children, Brian and Chanell. Isiah’s educational journey began at School 159 and Cherry Hill Jr High School #180, culminating in his graduation from Frederick Douglas High School, where he was both a basketball player and the spirited Drum Major in the band. He proudly served in the U.S. Army from 1974 to 1978, after which he pursued higher education at Sojourner Douglas College, earning a degree in Social Work. A man of varied careers, Isiah found his true calling as an Addiction Counselor, a role in which he impacted countless lives. His commitment to helping others was paralleled by his devotion to his faith. At Mt. Olive Baptist Church Turner Station, he served as a Deacon and the Armor Bearer for Pastor Ball, later leading the Praise and Worship Team. Isiah's passion for music was evident in his involvement with the Quartet group, Voices of Affirmed Odyssey, through which he traveled and spread joy. Isiah's life was a harmonious blend of faith, family, and music. Known for his kind words and incredible musical talent, he was most revered for his unwavering love of God, able to quote scripture with the ease of a scholar. He found joy in watching movies with Lynn, spending time with family and friends, and immersing himself in music and praise. Isiah’s family kindly requests that in lieu of flowers, donations be made to a charity of your choice, honoring his generous spirit and lifelong commitment to uplifting others. As we bid farewell to Isiah, we celebrate a man whose life was a testament to love, faith, and service. His legacy will continue to inspire and uplift all who were fortunate enough to know him.