Obituary of Patrice Renée Harris
Patrice Renée Harris
August 19, 1961 – September 25, 2024
Patrice Renée (née Fenton) Harris passed away peacefully on September 25, 2024, at the Center for Hospice in Scotch Plains, New Jersey, at the age of 63. Born on August 19, 1961, in Rahway, New Jersey, to Peter and Gwendolyn Fenton, Patrice was raised in Avenel, New Jersey, where she began to develop the deep compassion and boundless creativity that would define her life. She later resided in Edison, New Jersey before moving to North Palm Beach, Florida in 2008. Patrice returned home to New Jersey in 2022, residing in Iselin.
Patrice graduated from Colonia High School where she was a member of the forensics club, student council, and drama club. She was also a decorated student-athlete, captaining the girl’s basketball, soccer, and softball teams during her senior year. After obtaining her high school diploma, Patrice continued her education at Rutgers University, earning a bachelor’s degree in social work.
She first began her professional career counseling individuals with substance abuse disorders and later dedicated nearly two decades of social work service with the New Jersey Division of Youth and Family Services (DYFS), now known as the Division of Child Protection and Permanency. Her work as a social worker exemplified her commitment to helping those in need, particularly vulnerable children and families, and her kindness and empathy were recognized by all who crossed her path.
Alongside her career in social work, Patrice nurtured her passion for music and entertainment. During her lifetime, she founded Quiet Girls Productions, a music production and entertainment company, which provided live music, DJs, and MCs. Patrice was a talented musician, creating two original albums, and helped others produce their own musical projects and cultivate their artistic gifts.
After retiring from DYFS, Patrice moved to Florida where she found joy in performing stand-up comedy and worked as a chef in several restaurants. Her ability to make people laugh and lift their spirits, no matter the circumstances, was a testament to her vibrant personality and outlook on life. Patrice’s love for cooking also extended to her personal life, where she delighted in hosting dinner parties for family and friends, often experimenting with new recipes, flavors, and even jokes, as the “Comedy Chef.”
When Patrice wasn’t working, she found peace and happiness at the beach, particularly on Singer Island in Palm Beach, Florida, where she enjoyed the serenity of the ocean. She was an avid fan of Shark Week and animal programs, and her love of nature extended to all creatures, including her beloved shih tzu-terrier mix, Fudge. Patrice was also a devoted fan of science fiction, with Star Trek holding a special place in her heart.
Despite all her varied interests and pursuits, Patrice’s greatest joy came from her family. She is survived by her daughters, Nicole, Aja, and Danielle Harris, as well as her two brothers, Peter and Gregory Fenton, cherished nieces and nephews, and many aunts, uncles, cousins, and extended family.
Patrice was predeceased by her parents, Peter and Gwendolyn Fenton, and her brother Patrick Fenton.
Patrice’s memory will live on in the hearts of those who knew her, as a woman who gave so much to others through her career, creativity, and her love for family and friends. Her laughter, music, and generosity of spirit will be greatly missed.
A memorial visitation will be held on Saturday, October 12, 2024, from 9:00 to 9:30 AM, followed by a 9:30 AM memorial service at Higgins Home For Funerals, 752 Mountain Blvd., Watchung, NJ 07069.
