James E. “Jimmy” Harris, 74, of Hayes, died July 21, 2015 surrounded by loved ones.
Jimmy was a Gloucester native and 1959 graduate of Gloucester High School. He was owner of Harris Garage, a family-owned business originated by his father. Jimmy was a proud family man, compassionate, loyal, humble, and hard working. He was a loving and devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle and friend. His smile, gentle heart and wonderful sense of humor will be missed by all.
A community icon, Jimmy touched the lives of so many, whether it was helping a family or a waterman get their vehicle back on the road, coaching ball with children, taking family group ski trips, riding motorcycles with friends, or hosting guests in his RV at NASCAR races and the beach. Jimmy especially loved the water, where he enjoyed racing boats, fishing, and spending time on the Outer Banks with family and friends. During his boat racing years, he met a young girl from Florida who would become the love of his life and wife of nearly 48 years.
Jimmy never met a stranger and was always available to get someone out of a jam at any hour of the day or night. He also had a huge heart for animals, always having treats on hand for his four-legged friends.
A larger-than-life personality with incredible wit, Jimmy’s colorful expressions and jokes have become legend. Most anyone who met him has a Jimmy Harris story.
Jimmy was preceded in death by his parents, Herman E. and Christine S. Harris; his father-in-law and mother-in-law, Carl and Dorothy Genito, and uncle, James Carlton Shackelford.
He leaves to cherish his memories his devoted wife, Betsie Harris; three sons, Brian Harris and wife Sara, Michael Harris and wife Katie, and Mark Harris; grandchildren, A.J. and Jake Harris, and Grayson Harris; sister, Nan H. Leigh and husband Bobby; niece, Stacie Martin and husband Paul; great-nephews, Hunter and Christian Martin; and aunt, Joan Fecondo and husband Tony.
Funeral service conducted by the Rev. Deborah T. Marion and the Rev. Bill West was held at 11 a.m. Saturday, July 25, 2015, at Bethany United Methodist Church. Interment followed in Abingdon Episcopal Church Cemetery. The family received friends Friday, July 24, 2015, from 7-8:30 p.m. at Hogg Funeral Home, Gloucester Point.
In memory of Jimmy, the family desires for contributions to be sent to the Abingdon Volunteer Fire and Rescue, P.O. Box 9, Bena, Va. 23018 or Bethany United Methodist Church, P.O. Box 527, Gloucester Point, Va. 23062.
Family and friends may share condolences and memories at www.hoggfh.com