Thursday 1 May 2025
Source: LinkedIn
It is with deep sorrow that CABL NCR announces the passing of Justice of the Peace Paul Harris. His Worship passed away in the early morning of March 23, 2025, after a valiant battle with cancer.
Appointed to the OCJ in Ottawa in July 2017, His Worship Harris was the first Black Justice of the Peace in Ottawa. He played a vital role in the Association of Justices of the Peace of Ontario (AJPO), serving as East Region Director and on the Bursary Committee. In honour of his contributions and dedication, AJPO established a one-time Bursary in his name this year and permanently renamed the annual AJPO bursary in the East Region the Paul Max Harris Bursary.
He will be remembered for his warm smile, enduring strength, and uplifting spirit. We extend our heartfelt condolences to his family and all who cherished him.
Article on his appointment: Paul Harris appointed Justice of the Peace – Black Ottawa Scene
His Worship Paul Harris, born in Nottingham, England, of Jamaican heritage, was appointed Justice of the Peace in the Ontario Court of Justice in July 2017. Previously, Justice of the Peace Harris had 25 years of international work experience and in the federal public service, most recently working with Parks Canada as a Procurement Specialist and Manager.
JP Harris graduated with Honours from the University of Guelph, with a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology and an emphasis on Criminology and Philosophy. He was a varsity soccer player and former competitive soccer coach with international coaching experience. A much-appreciated public speaker, JP Harris has also been very active as a volunteer with various community initiatives, including the Black Canadian Scholarship Fund and Trust 15, and as a mentor to minority students in the Ottawa-Carleton region.
He is also a recipient of the Canadian Forces Peace Keeping Medal, and the proud father of a 22-year old university student and an 18-year-old high school graduate.
Justice of the Peace Paul Harris will be truly missed.