Biography:
James Harris Sr., a beloved father, grandfather, and devoted companion, passed away peacefully, leaving behind a legacy of resilience, hard work, and deep family devotion.
 
Early Life & Family Roots
Born on January 26, 1940, in Princess, Virginia, James was the son of George Harris and Hattie Collins. After the tender loss of his mother at just six months old, James was raised with abundant love in Creswell, North Carolina, by his grandmother, Claudia Anne Harris, his uncle Charlie Purnell, his aunt Almeter, and his uncle Laura Finner.
 
Life’s Journey & Career
In December 1958, James relocated to New York, marking the beginning of a long and industrious life in the city. He married Liza Doss in 1960, and though they separated in 1963, they were blessed with two daughters. James later shared a life and a son with Ann Eure. In his later chapters, he found a long-term life partner in Mrs. Ernestine Aiken with whom he built a beautiful life until his departure.
A man of strong work ethic, James began working for North Shore Hospital from January 1959 until May 1965. He later brought his dedication to a Fish and Chips establishment in Harlem, and ultimately spent decades as a skilled worker for a welding company, where he worked until his well-earned retirement in 2006.
 
Those Who Preceded Him in Death
James was reunited in eternity with his parents; his son, James Harris; his former companion, Ann Eure; his brother, Joseph Harris; and his sisters, Shirley Harris, Eloise Basnight, Mabel Hill, Madeline Hill, and Hattie Spencer. He was also preceded in death by his stepchildren, Douglas, Jeanie, and Hollie.
 
Those Who Cherish His Memory
His legacy will be kept alive by his loving daughters, Diana Harris Hammond and Linda Harris May; his supportive sons-in-law, Gregory Hammond and Rico May; and his daughter-in-law, Cherron Harris. He also leaves behind his extended Aiken family, who held a special place in his heart: Darryl, Arthur, Michelle, Amy, and Dominique Aiken.
 
James’s memory continues through his five grandchildren, Ayesha Shahid, Eddie B. Harris, Latoya Wharton, Ja'lah Sanaa Harris, and Devaughn Hall; and his three great-grandchildren, Jonathan Wharton, Jayden Navarro, and Emanuel Wharton. He will also be deeply missed by a host of loving nieces, nephews, cousins, and lifelong friends.