Jerome B. Harrington
Cade Chapel M.B. Church was filled Saturday, March 14, 2026, as Jackson State University tuba and brass players ushered in family and friends of Jerome B. Harrington with “When the Saints Go Marching In” and then the Masonic family paid final respects. Jerome transitioned March 5, 2026. He was 51. The Celebration of Life opened with Rev. Reginald Buckley and then, because Jerome was in the Male and Young Adult choirs, the songs were plentiful. Callaway High School classmates, Shady Oaks buddies, and many other friends shared in a true celebration of a life well lived.
Jerome lived a life rich in faith, fellowship, purpose, and joy – one that left an indelible mark on every community he touched. Born to the late Deacon J B Harrington and Mrs. Margaret (Tiny) Harrington on August 25, 1974, Jerome’s journey was guided early by love, discipline, and a deep-rooted commitment to God and humanity.
Jerome matriculated through the Jackson Public School system, where a lifelong passion for music began to flourish. With the tuba – most notably the sousaphone – as a chosen voice of expression, Jerome proudly marched with the Callaway High School Marching Band, as a member of the Class of 1992. Talent, perseverance, and determination opened the door to one of Jerome’s proudest achievements: becoming a member of Jackson State University’s world-renowned Sonic Boom of the South, where musical excellence met cultural legacy.
Faith stood as a cornerstone of Jerome’s life. A devoted life member of Cade Chapel Missionary Baptist Church (and honorary member of New Sardis Baptist Church – Memphis, TN), Jerome accepted Christ at the tender age of 11 and faithfully served the church community ever since. Among the many ministries embraced, a particular joy was found in the Brotherhood Ministry, the Male Chorus, Voices of Love, Fellowship Choir, and the annual Christmas Cantata – moments where fellowship, praise, and unity came together in beautiful harmony.
Jerome also cherished fraternal bonds as a devoted member of the M. W. Stringer Grand Lodge PHA Masonic Order, Wiley Spence Lodge # 704. The spirit of brotherhood, service, and fellowship defined these connections, and the memories formed there will remain treasured forever.
Jerome was a Master Mason (Blue Lodge), Royal Arch Mason (Red House), and Sir Knights of Templar. He was truly dedicated to the Masonic Order.
Driven by vision and curiosity, Jerome set a goal to be a cross-country logistics engineer – and achieved it in becoming an Over-the-Road Driver. That accomplishment carried Jerome across the nation, documenting and capturing the awe-inspiring beauty of the world. Through photography, Jerome preserved breathtaking sunrises, sweeping mountain views, and sunsets that spoke of peace, wonder, and reflection – each image a quiet testimony to seeing beauty in every horizon.
At the heart of all achievements was a genuinely kind soul. Jerome possessed a rich baritone voice, an infectious sense of humor, and a welcoming presence that drew people near. Known throughout the region for warmth and friendliness, Jerome treated all with gratitude and respect, consistently honoring the beauty of humanity while making the world brighter simply by being present with his glowing smile.
Jerome leaves to cherish a legacy of love and remembrance: a bonus mother Mae Harrington; sisters – Shirley Harrington, Orbra Porter (Herman), Marilyn Hayes (Johnny), and Doretha Monix (Anthony); brothers – Leroy Harrington (Faye), Wardell Reed (Marilyn), Darell Harrington (Shayda), Ramon Henry (Irene), Welton Henry (Lisa), Donald Henry (Rose), and Ethan Henry; along with a host of aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins, and beloved comrades.
Now resting in unity with the ancestors, Jerome is lovingly welcomed home by father and mother, along with three devoted sisters – Annette, Margaret, and Linda; brother Ethan; niece Stella; and great niece Arlona Kay – who have gone on before. Though Jerome’s earthly journey has reached its rest, the music, faith, laughter, and love shared will forever echo in the hearts of those who were blessed to know this remarkable life.