Joseph "Joey" Tyler Harris

Joseph "Joey" Tyler Harris was born on August 28, 1999, at Good Samaritan Hospital in Corvallis, Oregon, to Wendy Marie Valdez (Young) and Jeffrey Wayne Harris. Joey spent his entire life in Stayton, Oregon, the community he called home.

Joey grew up alongside his brother, Jeff Harris, and graduated from Stayton High School. In 2018, he answered the call to serve his country by joining the United States Army. His time in the Army became an important chapter of his life.

After returning home, Joey pursued another one of his passions- cars. He worked in car sales at Skyline Keizer Ford, where his love of vehicles and his natural ability to connect with people came together. Joey genuinely enjoyed helping his customers find the perfect vehicle. To him, it wasn't simply about selling a car; it was about helping someone find something they had been hoping for and were excited to take home.

In Joey’s own memorable words, he put “dreams in driveways.”

Anyone who met Joey was also likely to remember his wonderful smile. It was a smile that could light up his face and reflected the warmth and personality behind it. Whether he was talking cars, sharing an adventure, spending time outdoors, or simply enjoying the company of those around him, Joey’s smile was unmistakably his.

Joey loved the outdoors and was happiest when he could get away and enjoy everything Oregon had to offer. Fishing, hunting, camping, and hiking were among his favorite ways to spend his time. He appreciated adventure, open spaces, and the simple freedom of being outside.

His interests also reflected his appreciation for some of life’s finer things. Joey loved sports cars, expensive whiskey, and a great cigar. He knew what he liked, enjoyed life in his own way, and made memories doing the things that brought him happiness.

One of the most important and constant presences in Joey’s life was his beloved dog, Layla, a Belgian Malinois mix. Layla came into Joey’s life after he was discharged from the Army and remained faithfully by his side through the years that followed. Their bond was something special. She was his companion, and loyal friend, remaining by Joey’s side until the day he passed away.

Joey passed away on September 15, 2026, in Stayton, Oregon, at the age of 27.

He leaves behind his mother, Wendy Mane Valdez (Young); his father, Jeffrey Wayne Harris; his brother, Jeff Harris; his faithful canine companion, Layla; and the family, friends, coworkers, customers, and others whose lives crossed paths with his.

Joey was preceded in death by his maternal grandparents, Edward and Helen Young, and his paternal grandfather, Dennie Harris.

Twenty-seven years was far too short a time for those who loved Joey, but the length of a life cannot fully measure the memories left behind. Joey’s life held service, adventure, hard work, laughter, companionship, and a love for the things that made him happy.

He will be remembered in early mornings spent fishing, hunting trips and nights around a campfire, trails waiting to be explored, the sound of a beautiful sports car, a good glass of whiskey, a fine cigar, and the loyal eyes of Layla. He will be remembered by the customers he helped, the people he served alongside, the friends and family who knew him, and everyone fortunate enough to have seen that wonderful smile.

In honor of Joseph Tyler Harris and his military service, memorial donations may be made to Stop Soldier Suicide, an organization dedicated to helping veterans and service members.

Donations may be made online at StopSoldierSuicide.org or mailed to:

Stop Soldier Suicide, Inc.P.O. Box 670212Dallas, TX 75267-0212