Before every game, Harold Fannin Jr. grabs a black marker and writes a personal tribute on the tape wrapped around his wrists. On his right wrist, he marks “7/26” — the date his maternal grandfather, Benjamin Smith, passed away. On the left, he honors his late sister, Haria Wise, writing “10/23 Haria” or simply “Haria” with a heart to keep her close to him.

Despite facing the pain from the personal loss, Fannin thrived in college football. Now, he has become one of the most prominent players in the Bowling Green’s history. An alumni of McKinley High School, Fannin drew the limelight by shattering many records, finishing the season with 1,555 receiving yards and 117 receptions. Also, Harold’s football skills were highlighted in the 68 Ventures Bowl, 2024. In this game, he recorded 17 receptions for 213 yards and earned the nomination of MVP of the 68 Ventures Bowl. And, for his exceptional stats and college records, he has become one of the top prospects for the 2025 NFL Draft.

Clearly, his successful career journey is incomplete without mentioning his parents, mom, Lakeesha Wise, and dad, Harold Fannin Sr.

Who is Harold’s mother, Lakeesha Wise?

Bowling Green Falcons TE’s mother, Lakeesha Wise, has played a vital role in shaping his athletic journey. Lakeesha raised Fannin in a tight-knit family with 4 siblings: his brother Tahoe Wise and three sisters, Sky, Christiana, and the late Haria. Fannin shared a close bond with his sister Haria, who passed away in October 2023. Earlier, his mom reflected on Harold’s bond with his late sis, who died at the age of 20 after battling leukemia for two years.

Haria passed away when Fannin was playing a game against Ball State on Nov. 1, 2023. After her demise, his mom observed a different type of energy in him. As Fannin recorded a touchdown pass during Bowling Green State University’s football game, Lakeesha Wise could not resist expressing her feelings. “I remember when he made that touchdown at the game, the way he stomped and sort of, he didn’t bang on his chest, but he had this pose. I felt like through the television, I felt his energy like as if it was for her. It was like it was his first touchdown ever when I looked at him,” she said. Truly, it was a heartwarming moment for a family who mourned the loss of their loved one.

She further added, “I told him, ‘Haria is your biggest supporter, always has been, and she would want you to continue and carry on.'” It showcased Fannin’s mom’s support during the tough times. However, not only his mom but his dad has also been his constant supporter throughout his life journey.

Who is Harold Fannin Jr.’s father?

Fannin looked to two men in his family for inspiration. The first was his grandfather, Smith. In an interview with ESPN, Fannin said, ‘He is basically the reason why I played football.’ Smith, who lived nearby, was a role model for Fannin. He used to drive him to football practice every day, and on Sundays, they would watch NFL games together. His demise left a big hole in Fannin’s life, but his father kept him on track.

Harold Fannin Sr. never fails to encourage him throughout his career. Fannin has established his name as one of the most distinguished players, holding the honor of a conference’s Player of the Year award.

Despite this, his dad maintains a low profile. Though there is limited information available about Falcons TE’s father, one thing is clear: he has achieved the current position with the strong backing of his parents.