James Paul Harris' Obituary
Tribute
“I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.”
2 Timothy 4:7
James, 78, was born on June 30, 1944 in Montgomery County to Arnie and Betty Harris of Mt. Gilead. He was predeceased by 3 brothers, Curtis, Carl, and Bobby Harris all of Mt. Gilead and sister, Arlene McFayden of Troy. In 1987, he married Nancy and they enjoyed life together for 30 years until her death in 2017. He is survived by his 2 daughters, Monica Bruce of Rockingham, and Tonya Callicutt (Gary) of Troy. Sisters, Ellen Burris of Salisbury, Jean Hudson of Mt. Gilead, Stepdaughter Charlene Smith of Albemarle, 2 grandchildren, Lynn Deese and Tommy Havens and 3 great grandchildren, Ethan Deese, Bailey & T.J. Havens.
James graduated West Montgomery High School in 1963 and started his career as a Loan Officer with the Savings and Loan, then briefly worked at the Shipyard in Virginia and ended his career at Alcoa in Badin until his disability no longer allowed him to work.
You didn't have to personally know James to see that he had a true love for God, it was apparent from being around him. He was quick to tell a stranger about his faith and love for his Lord and Savior. His disability left him unable to walk since the early 90's and his speech and motor skills were impaired, but he never once complained, and his faith never wavered.
James loved his family and friends. We were all blessed to receive a card from him for all occasions, even a thank you card for the smallest thing you had done for him. He wanted to let us know we were loved and valued. We would receive a "thinking of you" card unexpectedly just to let us know he was thinking and praying for us. He had a sense of knowing when we needed these. Not being able to drive, he found another way to deliver his message.
He also loved Nascar racing, and you knew that on a Sunday afternoon he would be watching, pulling for a Ford! If anything, other than a Ford won, there was clearly cheating involved! James has crossed the greatest finish line and we can hear the joyful roar of the heavenly stands.
A memorial service will be held on July 1° at 11:00 am at Mt. Calvary Baptist Church in Albemarle with Gary Baker officiating. A private burial will be at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, the family wishes donations be made to Hospice of Cabarrus County. The family wishes to give their sincere gratitude for the compassion they showed not only to him but to the family.
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