Daren Ray Harris

Daren Ray Harris, 60, passed away peacefully at his home surrounded by family on Wednesday, July 1, 2026, in Owenton, KY. He was born on May 16, 1966, to Ray C. Harris, Jr. and Joan Woodward Harris in Covington, Kentucky.

Daren grew up in Boone County and was a proud graduate from Conner High School. He later attended EKU where he obtained his degree in criminal justice. He began his law enforcement career at the Newport Police Department eventually moving to the Boone County Sheriff’s department where he proudly served and protected his community for many years before retiring. Daren was a talented guy; he was a jack of all trades.  He discovered a deep love for cooking early in life. He chased this passion into the culinary world, working tirelessly to achieve his dream of becoming a professional chef. Whether experimenting with new flavors in the kitchen or studying the craft, he poured his soul into every plate. Cooking was not just a career choice; it was an expression of love and creativity he enjoyed sharing with his community. Daren and Amy opened several Restaurants in the area, including Giuseppe’s Neighborhood Pizzeria, The Hebron Grille, Arthur’s Bistro on the Green and Proof 124. Daren was also a wonderful coach, coaching the Ryle High School wrestling team in 1995 and leading the Northern Kentucky University Cheerleading team to be 4-time national champions. Whether he was patrolling the streets, in the gym coaching, or in the kitchen, Daren was helping others and doing what he loved. He was a true servant of God. He had the most compassionate heart and an immense love in helping others. He was an adored son, beloved husband, and the proudest Dad and PaPa that will be missed beyond words.

Daren was also a member of The Lighthouse Church in Owenton, KY where he devoutly served and grew in his faith.

Preceding him in death are his grandparents and one uncle, Dennis Woodward.

Those left here to carry on his great legacy are his wife and best friend of 32 years, Amy Van Meter Harris; his parents, Ray and Joan Harris; children, Drue Harris, Emily (Jon) Foster, Haley (Ryan) Romey, Zion and Ryder Harris; grandchildren, Luka, Phoenyx and soon-to-be granddaughter Foster. Nash, Leo, Georgia, Henry, and Mable Romey; Mother-in-law, Marita Van Meter, brother-in-law, Chris (Diane) Van Meter; sister-in-law, Lori (Dave) Pennington; nephews, Kyle Pennington and Eric Van Meter; niece, Allison Van Meter; several aunts, uncles, cousins, and many dear friends.

A visitation will be held on Wednesday, July 8, 2026, at Linnemann Funeral Home 1940 Burlington Pike, Burlington, KY 41005, from 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. A memorial service will follow at the funeral home at 5:00 p.m.

Expressions of sympathy may be made in Daren’s honor and name to The Lighthouse Church 5405 Hwy 127 N, Owenton, KY 40359.