Harry Richard Thuesdee JR.

Harry Richard Thuesdee Jr., affectionately known as “Champ,” was born on September 8, 1961, in Chicago, Illinois, to Harry Thuesdee Sr., a stationary engineer for the City of Chicago, and Mary Ann Thuesdee, a registered nurse. He was the second youngest of four children, following his sisters Myra and Mary Ann and preceding his brother Randy. 

The nickname “Champ” was given to him the day he arrived home from the hospital. His mother purchased a card bearing the word “champ,” and his sister Mary Ann lovingly embraced it as his name. It remained with him throughout his life, a fitting tribute to his strength, character, and enduring spirit. 

Harry attended Shiloh Seventh-day Adventist Academy and was actively involved in church life from an early age. He spent many summers at Seventh-day Adventist campgrounds, where his faith deepened and a strong sense of community took root. In his teens, he discovered a passion for music and began playing the saxophone. A gifted and soulful musician, he shared his talent generously in churches and among friends. Music became an essential part of who he was. When he was not playing his saxophone, he was often whistling or singing, filling ordinary moments with melody. In later years, he expanded his musical ministry by singing in various churches and serving as a licensed marriage officiant, joyfully uniting couples in matrimony.

 In 1983, Harry met Tiffany Clay, beginning a love story that started in their youth. He proudly took her to her senior prom, and their bond continued to grow from there. On October 12, 1985, they welcomed twin sons, Christopher and Phillip. Twenty-two months later, on August 19, 1987, their daughter Tiffany, lovingly nicknamed “Babysister,” was born. A devoted father and provider, Harry worked twelve-hour shifts in a steel mill while Tiffany cared for their home and children before becoming a registered nurse. On June 4, 1995, they were united in marriage in Flossmoor, Illinois. Their family was completed with the birth of their youngest son, Tyler, on October 1, 1997. 

Harry cherished the unique bond he shared with each of his children. He enjoyed shadowboxing with Christopher, listening to music with Phillip, teaching Tiffany how to play the piano, and taking Tyler to car dealerships simply to admire the craftsmanship of different models. Those moments were more than casual outings; they were opportunities for connection, conversation, and quiet joy between a father and his children. 

Known for his remarkably deep, resonant voice and warm personality, Harry had a natural gift for conversation. He could strike up a meaningful exchange with anyone, often turning strangers into friends. In 2004, he relocated to Georgia, where he continued building community through his faith, music, and voice.

Harry was a man of quiet devotion and steadfast responsibility. Before their passing, he faithfully cared for his parents, honoring them with patience, dignity, and unwavering love. His commitment to family was constant and sure. 

To his granddaughters, Kennedie and Chloe, he was simply “Daddy,” a title he carried with immense pride and tenderness. He was a steady and loving presence in their lives, offering protection, guidance, and affection. 

On February 21, 2021, Harry passed away surrounded by his wife and their four children. He departed this life as he lived it, held close by the family he cherished most. 

Harry is lovingly remembered by his wife, Tiffany; his children, Christopher, Phillip, Tiffany, and Tyler; his granddaughters, Kennedie and Chloe; his brother, Randy; his nieces, Stephanie, Ryan, and Efehi; his nephews, Uwadia, Jeremy, Julian, and Doug; and many cousins, extended family members, and friends who were blessed to know him. 

Harry “Champ” Thuesdee’s legacy endures through the music he shared, the faith he embodied, the family he nurtured, and the countless lives he touched with his voice, kindness, and enduring love.