Emelda Joseph Harness

Emelda Joseph Harness, the matriarch of the family, transitioned into eternal rest on Thursday, July 10, 2025 at her home. She was the third of four children born to the union of the late Leona Joseph and Rayfield Moss. The former wife of Wilbert Dallas Jr., Robert Earl Harness, and Peter Bell. Beautiful mother to Melanie and Terrence Harness and the late Wilbert Dallas III. Emelda was affectionately known as Ma, Madear, Momma, Auntie Emelda, Melda, Mella, Beulah, Lila, and Lucy. Emelda wore multiple hats in the workforce, including years of service devoted to Child care, Monahan Brothers Inc., Tulane Industrial Laundry Inc., and Gators Discount Store. Additionally, Emelda was featured in a local article, published by Louisiana Illuminator, for her voting poll service. The article proudly quotes, “In 50 years of service, she has carried out her duties with the highest integrity. The voters and her fellow commissioners love her.” She recited the phrase “I just want love and peace in the midst of any endured circumstances. Emelda was preceded in death by her parents, Leona Joseph and Rayfield Moss, son Wilbert Dallas III, grandson Lance Wilbert Dallas, and siblings, Paul Duhon Jr., Joan Marie Duhon (godson, Floyd Duhon), and Gilbert Joseph. She leaves to cherish her legacy, a daughter Melanie Harness and son Terrence Harness, five grandchildren, five great grandchildren, three godchildren, nieces, nephews, relatives, and friends. Emelda will dearly be missed by all who were blessed to have crossed her path, especially her family who shared the bond of agape love. Relatives and friends of the family, also pastors, officers and members of Greater St. Andrew and First Mount Calvary Baptist Churches are welcome to join in the Celebration of Life on Friday, July 25, 2025 at Greater St. Andrew Baptist Church, 7000 Earhart Blvd. beginning at 10:00 a.m. Pastor Terrence Green, officiating. Church visitation from 9:00 a.m. until the hour of service. Rev. David M. Patin Sr. and Gwiena Magee Patin, Funeral Directors. Professional Entrusted to: LITTLEJOHN FUNERAL HOME, 2163 Aubry Street, Cal K. Johnson, Funeral Director/Manager, Info: (504) 940-0045.