James Harris

HARRIS, James Ross - Age 82, of Swartz Creek, went to his Heavenly Home on Tuesday, January 7, 2020 at home.  Per his wishes, cremation has taken place.  A celebration of his life will be held 11 AM Saturday, January 11, 2020 at Duffield United Methodist Church, 7001 Duffield Road, Swartz Creek.  Pastor Duane Lindsey officiating.  Visitation will be held at the church  Friday from  2-4 and 6-9 PM and Saturday from 10AM until time of service.  Those desiring may make contributions to Duffield United Methodist Church or All American Hospice.
Jim was born June 15, 1937, in Flint, to Willard and Alice (Mitchell) Harris.  On October 10, 1959, he married Helen Skinner.  Jim moved to Swartz Creek at age two, and lived in the area until his death.  Jim was a farmer all his life; he and Helen also owned and operated Harris Top Soil for 20 plus years, and raised their three boys on the farm on Hill Road.  Jim was in a farming partnership, first with his father and then with his son, Bill.  The partnership was dissolved and Jim retired in December, 2009.
Farming was not Jim's only occupation, but his hobby as well.  He loved working with the soil, and watching the crops grow to maturity.  He enjoyed seeing the cattle out on the pasture, especially the calves in the spring.
Surviving are: his wife of 60 plus years, Helen; sons, Bill (Katie) Harris, Donald (Brenda) Harris, and Tim (Rachel) Harris; grandchildren, David, Daniel, Erin, and Kelly Harris, Ivan and Alexander Harris; his adoptive daughter-in-law, Nancy Goodman, and Scott, Richard, Randy, and Shelley Goodman, whom he also considered his grandchildren; and great grandchildren, Lucas and Cameron Goodman; brother in law , Robert Strobel; nephew, Marty ( Pam) Strobel; niece, Cindi (Chris) Montgomery and his extended family, friends, and neighbors.
He loved his family very, very much, and felt that love returned in the many things you did for him.  Just always remember how much joy all of you gave him, and how proud he was of each and every one.
He was preceded in death by his Parents; his in-laws, Ed and Crystal Smart; and his "adoptive son", Terry Goodman; sister in law, Leota Strobel. Tributes may be shared at wwwsharpfuneralhomes.com.