Jovita T. Harris-Okonkwo

Jovita Toren Harris-Okonkwo was born on September 7, 1952, to the late Peggy Ann Harris (Wilson) and Leonard L. Harris.

As the second eldest, Jovita helped to look after her younger siblings and was their fierce protector. She attended Baltimore City Public School, graduating from Paul Laurence Dunbar in 1971. After graduating, Jovita accepted a position at Johns Hopkins Hospital, working in food services. She finished her 47-year career at Johns Hopkins as a Pharmacy Technician. She took pride in her work and was always willing to share her medical expertise with others.

After retiring, Jovita could indulge in some of the things she loved most. Apart from spending time with her family and friends, she enjoyed shopping, particularly for jewelry. She frequented the International Gem and Jewelry Show and other jewelry stores to purchase beautiful sterling silver pieces. When she wasn’t shopping for jewelry, she could often be found at Walmart or Sam’s Club, her other favorite stores. If Jovita loved anything more than shopping, it was getting a good manicure and pedicure. She was known for her signature long, acrylic nails and wine-colored lipstick to match.

Jovita cared about more than just material things; she cared about giving to others. After her nephew, Dantée, was diagnosed with cancer, she started donating to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital so that sick children would always have a place that would help them. Her affection for young people extended to the many neighborhood kids on Caroline Street who saw her as their “auntie” – a role that she cherished.

A devout Christian, she was a member of the New Psalmist Baptist Church for more than 30 years, serving in the Nurse’s Ministry for some time.

Jovita was preceded in passing by her sister, Francine; nephew, Dantée; aunt, Laura; and cousins, Darlene and Dennis.

She leaves to cherish her memory: her siblings, Darrell (Sharon), Venice, Glynis, Pierre (Darlene), Joycelyne, and Dwayne; nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins, special friends; Arthur Hill and Alethia Boone; goddaughter, Brittany Hill; church family and a host of other close family and friends.