Johnna Amity Harrell

Johnna Amity Harrell
Jan. 12, 1972-Aug. 18, 2024

“… no one could change my mind but Mama tried.”

A variation on those last two words is emblazoned in ink on her leg. They symbolize Amity’s spirit and determination. But it wasn’t just her Mom and Dad who tried. Everyone who loved her tried.

Johnna Amity Harrell’s life ended way too soon on Aug. 18, 2024, in Fort Worth. In the end, she felt no pain and finally seemed to find some peace.

Amity was a true force of nature who pushed herself to every limit, no matter the challenge. Her smile could light up a room and everyone in it. Her incredible intelligence and hatred of boredom helped her excel at everything she put her mind to: cooking, tae kwon do, woodworking, fitness training, massage therapy, power lifting, kickboxing, writing (including several novels), just to name a few.

She was a complicated yet devoted daughter, sister, aunt and friend, and was fiercely protective of those she loved. She loved the beach, her many dogs, music of all kinds, and dictionaries. Yes, dictionaries.

Born in California, she grew up in Arlington, Texas. She graduated from Arlington High School, attended Tarrant County College and earned her bachelor’s degree in kinesiology from the University of Texas at Arlington.

Amity had few precious years as her parents’ “one and only rebel child,” until her little sister came along. Then it was her young life’s mission to punish that sister until Amity discovered her usefulness in blame-taking, tricking her out of her pocket money, and eventually as a clever, excellent sidekick who often got her out of trouble.

Amity could be mercurial in mood, but if she claimed you as a friend or family member, she would be in your corner to fight for you, sometimes showing up when least expected. She would often then crack jokes about whatever predicament you had found yourself in.

She was serious about a few things, though: her nephews (aka “The Dude Crew”), her mountain bikes, her dogs and her family. In fact, discovering a whole new part of her family later in life gave Amity the sense of belonging she always craved. But in truth, it was never too difficult for her to find kindred spirits. Whether it was partying, working out or traveling the state with her trusty bike in tow, Amity could find her people wherever she went.

She leaves behind her family to remember her many escapades and adventures, jokes and wild anecdotes, including her partner Michael Knierim; mother, Becky Harrell, of Arlington; father, Carlisle “Mark” Harrell (Susan Maclagan), of Winnipeg, Manitoba; sister, Domini (Todd) Davis, of Arlington; and nephews Gabriel, Brogan and Callan Davis. She is also survived by aunts Cyndy Brace, Keli Brace (Boyd Atherton) and Lydia Harrell; uncles Chris (Linda) Harrell, Tony (Christy) Harrell; and cousins, Morgan (Jeremy Burke) Harrell, Rachael Harrell and Eli (Rebecca Ann) Harrell. Her extended family includes Tanyon (Brian) Daniels, Jenevieve Perry (Daniel Truque), Sherrice Perry, Daniel Fenwick-Perry III (Briggs Fenwick-Perry), and many nieces and nephews.

She is preceded in death by her grandmothers, Ovie Brace and Lou Harrell; grandfathers, Fulton Harrell and Alden John Brace; uncles Wesley Harrell and Alden John Brace Jr.; and cousins Jeremy Nelson and James Harrell. Last but not least, her beloved dogs Jett, Dashiell and Cole went before Amity, probably to scope out the best spots for snuggles and dance parties.

Amity touched so many lives in her work and avocations throughout her too-short life. Since she didn’t get to read and edit this before she later-dayed, please contribute to this entry by sharing your favorite stories about her below in the guestbook.

If you feel moved to make an offering in Amity’s name, please donate to the Dallas Off-Road Bicycle Association (click here to donate now) or to the charity of your choice.