Simon Chandler Harrist was born on July 28, 2000 in Beaumont, TX and passed away unexpectedly on Jan. 28, 2023 at the age of 22.

In December 2022, he graduated from the University of North Texas, earning a Bachelor of Arts in English with a focus on literature. Simon had recently started working on his master's degree in education and had just gotten accepted into a Postbaccalaureate Teacher Education Program. An ambitious young man, he had career goals of working as a high school English teacher, obtaining his Ph.D., and ultimately, becoming a university professor.

Simon had a sophisticated way with words that stood out in the way he spoke and the songs and poems he wrote. His loved ones describe him as highly intelligent, analytical, introspective, and observant. He would zero in on the finer details and enjoyed sharing his knowledge with others. To his sister, Sabrina, he was the wiser, older brother who widened her perspective on the world and taught her important lessons about life.

As a creative mastermind, Simon was a gifted chess player, writer, and photographer. He became fluent in German, played the guitar, read classic books, loved video games, appreciated art museums, and enjoyed spending time with his family and friends.

With his gentle soul and calming demeanor, Simon overflowed with a deep love for others. His smile would light up a room and had the power to put people at ease. Those closest to Simon describe him as the best son, brother, boyfriend, and best friend one could ever hope to have.

Simon is survived by his mother, Norma 'Gigi' Nava, father, Rich Harrist, sister, Sabrina Harrist, paternal grandparents, Sunda and Curtis Harrist, significant other, Maya Joyner, best friend Elijah Gremp, and countless other extended family and friends who all miss him dearly.

He was preceded in death by his maternal grandparents Romana Nava and Panfilo Nava.

Memorial services were held at the Community Life Church at 3 p.m., Saturday, February 4, 2023 in Sunnyvale, Texas.