James Harris

Tuesday, December 20, 2011

Mr. James Harris went home to be with his Lord Sunday, Dec. 18, 2011. A longtime resident of Blytheville, James was born in Macon, Miss., Feb. 15, 1920, and moved to Blytheville at a very young age. A veteran of World War II, James saw military service in France. James was preceded in death by his first wife, Mary Florence Harris. They had no children. James was later married to Bettye Mills of Idlewild, Mich.

Mr. Harris was a lifelong member of Pilgrim Rest Baptist Church on Ash Street and served many years there as treasurer.

A gifted gardener, James won "Garden of the Month" by the Courier News when he was the gardener for Mr. and Mrs. J. A. Leech at their home at 1043 West Main Street in Blytheville. The glorious riot of color of the azeleas and dogwood were a sight that the whole city enjoyed. Mr Harris also worked for Mr. Leech at the Coca Cola Bottling Company and took great pride in the building and the grounds.

Mr. Harris leaves one niece, Willie Jean Spears of Steele. He has left many loving friends who feel like family, among them are the children and grandchildren of Mrs. Leech.

Mr. Harris will be buried at a graveside service at 10 a.m. Wednesday at New Hope Cemetery in Yarbro, with the Rev. Clarence Pilgram officiating. He will be buried next to his wife, Mary Florence.

Visitation will be from 3-5 p.m. Tuesday at McDonald-Horner Funeral Home.