Funeral service for Mr. Brett "BJ" Harden Jr., 38 of Copperas Cove, TX will be held Saturday, May 3, 2025, 1:00 p.m. at Christian House of Prayer the Copperas Cove Campus in Copperas Cove, TX.  Viewing will be held prior to the service from (11:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.) at the church.

BJ Harden, Jr., was born on April 9, 1987, in Fort Sill, Oklahoma, to Brett Harden, Sr. and Dena Harden. BJ a proud veteran of the United States Army and a cherished member of his community, passed away on April 21, 2025, at the age of 38, in Copperas Cove, Texas. This is where he and his family reside. BJ devoted his life to God, family, his friends and community.

BJ was a remarkable individual whose passion for sports, family, and life left a positive mark on everyone he touched. From his early days as an all-around athlete in the city league to his high school years excelling in football, baseball, and basketball. BJ's passion for athletes was clear to all who knew him. Beyond the field and court, he nurtured a lifelong love for bowling and fishing – two hobbies that brought him joy and serenity.

After pursuing college studies in automotive technology, BJ felt the call to serve his country and joined the United States Army in the Air Defense Artillery Branch. During his deployment to Kuwait in 2013, he met the love of his life, Fileza Hairston. Their connection was instant love at first sight and marked the beginning of a truly extraordinary journey. Fileza came into BJ's life with her two daughters, Alanna and Ariah, and later blessed with two more daughters, Amiira and Armanii. Together they formed a beautiful and blended family. For BJ, family was his greatest treasure, and he poured his heart into being an unbelievable husband, father, and son.

BJ's passion for sports extended beyond his youth, as he continued to enjoy riding sports bikes and became Vice President of Tracks Rydaz, a brotherhood that brought him deep bonds and lifelong friendships. His dedication to bowling earned him the prestigious 300-ring –a testament to his skill and determination. Bowling was not just a sport for BJ; it was a cherished activity he shared with his father and family. Though his love for bowling took a backseat as his daughters' athletic endeavors grew, he never lost his enthusiasm and found joy in bowling for leisure.

In later years, BJ returned to fishing, a hobby that brought him peace and allowed him moments of reflection. Joining a bass club, he participated in Tuesday night and weekend tournaments, immersing himself in the tranquility of nature and the thrill of the sport. After being medically discharged from the Army, BJ continued to demonstrate resilience and dedication. He earned his certification as an HVAC Tech and contributed his skills to Fort Cavazos, leaving a lasting impact on those he worked with. BJ's legacy is one of unwavering love, infectious enthusiasm, and an ability to bring people together.

BJ is survived by: his parents, Brett and Dena Harden; grandparents, John and Iolett Wise, Sr., his wife, Fileza Harden; and his daughters, Alanna, Ariah, Amiira and Armanii.