James Edward Harris

James Edward Harris was born on October 24,1928 in McMinnville, Tennessee and received his heavenly body on July 4, 2024. James is preceded in death by his bride of almost 72 years, Peggy Sue Christian Harris, as well as his parents Oscar and Lola Harris and his sister Virginia Lance. 

James loved his country and was honored to serve in the Korean war from January 1952 until December 1953. Upon his return, he felt the Lord called him to preach the gospel, so he and Peggy moved to Nashville where he enrolled at David Lipscomb College majoring in Bible/Speech Communication. After receiving his degree, he served approximately forty years at following congregations: Bethany Church of Christ (McMinnville, TN); Pikeville Church of Christ (Pikeville, TN); Highland Village Church of Christ (Bloomington, IN); Portland Church of Christ (Portland, TN); Hartsville Pike Church of Christ (Gallatin, TN); Riverwood Church of Christ (Nashville, TN) and Nashville Road Church of Christ (Gallatin, TN). 

His preaching centered on discipleship and loving God with all your heart, soul, mind and strength. His messages were both practical and inspiring, leading many to faith. One of his most impressive gifts was the ability to quote long passages of scripture during his sermons. However, his ministry extended beyond preaching. He was there for people in their time of need, as he understood that life is all about relationships. After his retirement, he would continue to preach by appointment and spent his last eight years conducting a Sunday afternoon service at Vitality Assisted Living.

His legacy will continue through his children Tim (Robin) Harris, Paula (Mike) Shinnick, Daniel (Melanie)Harris and his seven grandchildren, Tyler (Elisa) Harris, Ellen (Jeff) Flannery, Will (Caity) Shinnick, Morgan (Jamie) Trinker, Seth Harris (Joy Weddle), Sarah (Dan) Quillen, Mae Beth Harris, and 14 great grandchildren.

Visitation will be from 1:00 pm to 3:00 pm on Sunday, July 7th at Hartsville Pike Church of Christ in Gallatin, TN. A private family burial will be held at a later date.

He truly enjoyed his relationships with the Elders of the congregations he served alongside through the years. He requested that these Elders, both past and present, serve as honorary pallbearers.