James William Harris

James William Harris, 92, of Madison Heights, Virginia, passed away on December 24, 2022. He was the son of the late Walter Lee and Virginia Ramsey Harris, and the loving husband of Elsie Hamlett Harris for 67 years.

James was born on August 24, 1930, in Charlotte County, Virginia. He served in the United States Navy during the Korean War era. He was retired from Home Beneficial Life Insurance.

He was a member of Holy Cross Catholic Church for over 60 years where he proudly served as a 4th Degree Knight in the Knights of Columbus. He was blessed to be chosen to be an Honorary Guard for the Pope in1979 when he came to Washington DC.

James is survived by his children, Janet Combs (Ronnie), Cheryl Harris, Rosemary Fulcher (Phillip), Carol Radcliff (Mark), Sheila Harris, Regina Gibson (Lance), Michael Harris, Philip Harris (Deborah), Roger Harris (Crisandra), Shawn Harris (Lois), and Paul Harris; sisters, Mary Williams, and Myrtle Coates; 22 grandchildren, 36 great-grandchildren, 4 great-great-grandchildren, and many loving friends in the community.

In addition to his parents and loving wife, James is predeceased by his sons, Timothy Harris and Patrick Harris; grandson Andrew Scott Kessler; great granddaughter Juztice Leeann Martin; brothers, Walter Harris, Jr., Dalton Harris, Claude Harris, Thedford Harris, Garland Harris, and Russell Harris.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to his wonderful caregivers at The Elms of Lynchburg. We also would like to thank Gentle Shepherd Hospice for their constant attention and care during his illness.

A visitation will be held on Monday, January 2, 2023 from 10:00 am until 10:45 am. A funeral service will be held Monday, January 2, 2023 following the visitation starting at 11:00 am at Holy Cross Catholic Church with Fr. Sal Anonuevo officiating. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Holy Cross Catholic Church.

Tharp Funeral Home & Crematory, Lynchburg, is assisting the family.