“Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted.” — Matthew 5:4

As we gather to pay tribute to Dr. Corey Dewayne Harris, we pause to reflect on the remarkable influence he had on all those fortunate enough to know him. Born on July 31, 1981, in Arkadelphia, Arkansas, Corey was the cherished son of Patsy Harris and Rev. Kenneth L. Banks. From an early age, his vibrant spirit and steadfast faith were apparent; he accepted Christ as his personal Lord and Savior and was baptized at St. Paul A.M.E. Church. His deep love for Jesus and commitment to his church family shaped the principles that guided his life.

Corey’s pursuit of education embarked in the Arkadelphia Public School District where he exceeded expectations and developed a thirst for knowledge. He graduated with honors in 1999 from Arkadelphia High School and left a lasting impact on both classmates and staff. As a proud member of the Arkadelphia Badgers, he excelled in basketball and football, demonstrating not only his athletic prowess but also his spirit of teamwork and sportsmanship. Throughout his life, Corey remained grounded, frequently returning to his hometown to share his achievements and motivate those around him.

Driven by a passion for learning, Corey continued his education at the University of Arkansas, where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology in 2003. During this time, he joined the Kappa Kappa chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha fraternity in Spring 2000, forming bonds of brotherhood that would last a lifetime. Corey was also a part of the Arkansas Razorback football team. He was a very integral part of the team's success that year. He furthered his studies at Rockhurst University, completing his doctoral program in 2007 and earning a Doctor of Physical Therapy degree. Through his work, Corey profoundly influenced many lives, helping individuals regain strength and mobility with compassion and skill.

“The bond between a mother and her son is a sacred thread woven through every experience, every laughter, and every tear, forever connecting them even when life ends.” If you knew Corey, you would readily acknowledge that his incredible bond with his mother (Patsy) was a very unique, powerful relationship built on unconditional love, total trust, and mutual respect and support. Their relationship was the foundation of Corey’s development, shaping his perspective on life and relationships. Her unfathomable sacrifices for her son did not go unnoticed and set the standard for many around the globe. He often stated, “Any accolades that I receive belong to my mama!” Patsy met Corey at the gates of heaven with open arms. They are together again in paradise.

On April 3, 2011, Corey married the love of his life, Terri, and together they built a loving, faith-centered home. Their union brought together a beautiful blended family. Corey embraced Terri’s son, Maurice, as his own, and on April 5, 2013, they welcomed their daughter, Kennedy, completing their family of four. Corey was a devoted husband and a nurturing father whose warm and engaging personality made everyone around him feel valued and appreciated. He taught his children the values of kindness, resilience, and integrity, inspiring them to believe in themselves and pursue their dreams fearlessly.

As they navigate life without him, his lessons will echo in their hearts, reminding them to be brave, compassionate, and faithful to themselves. Though he may no longer be physically present, his spirit lives on in the cherished memories they created together, forever shaping the individuals they will become. His love was a gift that will remain with them always. Though his life’s song was cut short, its melody still drifts through the hearts of those who loved him.

A passionate sports enthusiast, Corey was a devoted fan of the Dallas Cowboys, the LA Lakers, and the Chicago Cubs. His enthusiasm for sports mirrored his zest for life, as he cheered on his teams with unmatched fervor. Kobe Bryant was one of his greatest inspirations, and Corey lived an intentional life, which was a picture of a quote from Kobe: “Have a good time. Enjoy life. Life is too short to get bogged down and be discouraged. You have to keep moving. You have to keep going. Put one foot in front of the other, smile, and just keep on rolling". Corey’s life reflected these qualities in his travels, an adventurous spirit, an energetic zest for life, relentless zeal and pursuit of excellence, community involvement and outreach, a connection with others, overcoming adversity, chasing his dreams, a balance of passion and professionalism, effective communicative skills, and a magnetic personality.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Patsy Harris; grandparents, Mary Caroline Page, Pat C. Harris, Erma Jefferson, and James Banks.

Corey leaves behind a legacy filled with love and kindness, treasured by his family and friends. He is survived by his wife, Terri, and his children, Kennedy and Maurice, his father, Rev. Kenneth L. Banks of Leander, TX, his sister, Talayia Ellis Johnson(Gregory), and a brother, Jamie A. Banks of Little Rock, AR.

Left to cherish his memory are his aunt, Rhonda Banks Crenshaw of Memphis, TN. and his uncles: Ricky Banks of Little Rock, Arkansas, Dennis Parker of White Hall, Arkansas, Donald (Betty) Harris of Compton, California, and Ronald (Annette) Harris of Palmdale, California. He is also lovingly remembered by his father-in-law and mother-in-law, Barry and Karen Slay; his grandparents-in-law, Mr. and Mrs. Alfred L. (Dorothy) Knox, Sr.; and his brother-in-law, Cody Slay, all of whom reside in Atlanta, Georgia. He is also fondly remembered by his dedicated cousins, Damien D. Harris (Canerika) of Houston, Texas, and Terrance Dooley (Nicole) of Dallas, Texas, bonus sisters - Reyenga Walker-Grafton (William) of Little Rock, AR, Robin Jones (Dedric) of Arkadelphia, Arkansas & Brianne Goffin of Monticello, Arkansas. He also leaves numerous cousins and “chosen brothers”-Carlos Dickerson, Ollie Ware Jr., Bryson Wilson, Alex Pickett, Todd Cromedy, Paul Kimbrough, Cornelius Boone, Antonio Dixon, Darrin Ingraham, and Jaye Johnson IV, as well as several other friends.

In Dr. Corey Dewayne Harris, we see the essence of a life well-lived—one characterized by faith, love, and a commitment to uplifting others. As we mourn his loss, let us also celebrate the extraordinary journey he undertook and the lasting impact he had on our lives. May his memory inspire us to live with the same passion and purpose he exhibited every day.