Carl Harris, Jr., 54, of Hyde Park, Massachusetts, passed away on September 6, 2026. Born on March 9, 1972, in Boston, Carl was the beloved son of the late Carl Harris, Sr. and Jo-Ann (Harris) Hill. After his father’s passing when Carl was young, his mother married Isaac Hill, who lovingly raised Carl as his own son.

Carl grew up in Boston and attended Driscoll School in Brookline before graduating from Brookline High School. A good student who enjoyed working with his hands, Carl entered the workforce right after high school. He began his career as a meat cutter at Lambert’s in Westwood and advanced in the industry through positions with BJ’s and Costco. Later, Carl embraced a new challenge as an Aircraft Fueler at Boston Logan International Airport. He enjoyed his work, the people he worked with, and the challenges of the job. His dedication and skill earned him the trust of his colleagues, and he was often called upon to fill in as supervisor when needed.

Through his marital union with Sonya Alford, Carl was blessed with his beloved daughter, Sharliya Jewel Harris, who was the apple of his eye. He especially cherished the quiet moments they shared, sitting together and talking about her plans and dreams while he listened and offered his fatherly advice.

Carl was a gentle giant with a kind heart, a great sense of humor, and a natural gift for making people feel welcome. Even as a child, people were drawn to him. He had a way of taking a difficult situation and making it lighter. His infectious smile could light up a room, reflecting the warmth and joy he brought to those around him.

Carl also shared a special bond with his mother. He often greeted her with his familiar, “Good morning, Mother,” and loved sending her funny videos simply to brighten her day and make her laugh. His brothers, Jerome, Dana, and Tyrone, were more than siblings to Carl; they were his best friends and lifelong companions. Their bond was filled with love, laughter, shared memories, and the kind of connection that only brothers can share. Family was at the center of Carl’s life, and he treasured the time he spent with those he loved.

Carl loved sports, especially basketball and football. A left-handed basketball player, Carl loved putting his sharp left hook to work on the court. He played until a knee injury prevented him from continuing but remained an avid sports fan and especially enjoyed watching football. He also loved music, particularly hip-hop, R&B, and jazz.

Carl was a true foodie. He loved cooking shows, dining out, traveling, discovering new restaurants, and experimenting with new dishes. His specialty was his collard greens gumbo, and he seemed to always know the best places to eat. A family friend affectionately called him “Our Own Phantom Gourmet.”

Carl’s kindness extended beyond his family. He would give elderly neighbors rides and made a point of making them feel seen and special. He was always looking for ways to be helpful. A God-fearing man, Carl often reflected on the Bible teachings he had learned as a young boy, carrying those lessons of kindness and compassion throughout his life.

Carl leaves to cherish his memory his beloved daughter, Sharliya Harris; his mother, Jo-Ann Hill; his stepfather, Isaac Hill; his brothers, Jerome Collins and his wife, Carolyn Collins, Dana Hill, and Tyrone Hill; his nieces and nephews; and a host of aunts, uncles, cousins, extended family members, friends, coworkers, and neighbors.

Carl had a spark like no other. He brought laughter, warmth, and light wherever he went. He was deeply cherished, and his kindness, humor, and love for his family will remain in the hearts of all who knew him.

He will be dearly missed and lovingly remembered.