DeAndre Harris-Bey, affectionately known to many as “Brother Ahmed,” transitioned from this earthly life on May 29, 2026, leaving behind a profound legacy of service, transformation, and unwavering commitment to his family and community. Born on November 24, 1966, in St. Louis, Missouri, to Tommy Lee Harris Sr. and Brenda Harris-Norman, DeAndre dedicated his life to helping others discover hope, healing, and purpose.

A beloved son, brother, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, mentor, community leader, and friend, DeAndre embodied resilience, redemption, and faith in action. With 29 years of recovery, he transformed his lived experiences into a powerful testimony that inspired countless individuals throughout St. Louis and beyond. His life became a beacon of hope for those overcoming addiction, incarceration, trauma, poverty, and systemic barriers.

As the Founder of the Restorative Justice Movement, DeAndre devoted his life to creating pathways toward healing, accountability, and restoration. Through his vision and leadership, he worked tirelessly to strengthen individuals, families, and neighborhoods. He was instrumental in establishing and shaping organizations such as Youth Awareness and the Restorative Justice Movement, creating innovative resources dedicated to community healing, violence prevention, youth empowerment, and justice reform.

DeAndre was deeply committed to educating young people and helping them avoid the pitfalls of violence, substance abuse, and destructive decision-making. Throughout his life, he actively participated in violence prevention initiatives and community-based solutions designed to foster safety, accountability, and opportunity for future generations. His influence extended far beyond professional titles; he was a trusted mentor, advocate, teacher, and source of wisdom for countless individuals seeking a better path.

Professionally, DeAndre served in numerous capacities throughout the behavioral health and recovery field. As a Certified Criminal Justice Professional and Co-Occurring Specialist, he worked with organizations including New Beginnings, Hopewell Clinic, Concordance Academy, Preferred Family Healthcare, Bridgeway Behavioral Health, St. Louis Metro Treatment Center, Gateway Free and Clean, and the St. Louis City Drug Court. His dedication to service also extended into food outreach efforts and support for unhoused populations throughout the community. Whether teaching about criminal thinking patterns, recovery, accountability, or personal responsibility, DeAndre believed every person deserved the opportunity to heal, grow, and reclaim their future.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, DeAndre embraced life with joy, authenticity, and humor. Known affectionately as “Soul Brother the Comedian” and “DJ Draco on the Ones and Twos,” he brought laughter, music, and positive energy wherever he went. No matter the setting, DeAndre was “The Man”—a larger-than-life presence whose compassion, humor, wisdom, and unwavering love left a lasting impression on everyone he encountered.

Above all else, DeAndre was a devoted family man. He cherished his role as a father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, uncle, great-uncle, mentor, and friend. His wisdom, guidance, humor, and unconditional love will continue to live on through the generations he helped nurture and inspire.

DeAndre leaves to cherish his memory: His loving mother, Brenda Harris-Norman; His siblings, Tommy Lee Harris Jr. and Donna Damechi Harris-White; His nieces, Jazmin “Jazzy Fizzle” White and Jallijah “Bella” Harris; His nephews, Brandon “Head” White, Avery “Bangscrew” Harris, and Dante “Heavy” White; His great-nephew, Tristan White; His daughters, Ella Felicia Fay Harris and Ashlynn Eden; His grandchildren, Christopher Bobo, Christinia Bobo, Shawn Jones, Shawntearria Jones, Deshawn Jones, Malik Taylor, Maliko Taylor, Malia Taylor, Shannon Strain, Derriyah Strain, Ryker Eden, Jasper Collins, and Harper Collins; His great-grandchild, Jamir Bobo; His extended family members, Amber Harris, Zina Coleman, Hassan White, and a host of relatives, friends, colleagues, community members, and all those whose lives were forever changed by his presence.

DeAndre Harris-Bey’s life was a ministry of restoration. He believed in repairing harm, rebuilding relationships, restoring hope, and creating opportunities for others to thrive. His legacy will continue through the countless lives he touched, the communities he strengthened, and the movements he helped build.

Though his earthly journey has ended, the seeds he planted in the hearts of others will continue to flourish for generations to come.

Well done, good and faithful servant.

Forever Remembered. Forever Respected. Forever Loved.