You haven't convinced me. :) If we're looking for the adult character whose death will have the most devastating emotional impact on Harry, my bet is on Hagrid. Hagrid's death would also have the effect of highlighting the predjudices that infest the Wizarding world. Remember, Hagrid had many parental *supporters* in CoS. Hagrid's death would draw the battle lines more clearly than anyone's, if that is Ms. Rowling's aim. Of course, if we were truly able to delve into the lady's mind, we wouldn't be having nearly the fun we are now. ;)