James Douglas Harris

James “Jim” Douglas Harris went home to be with the Lord on Wednesday, May 17th after a brief illness.

A man of few words, family and friends knew that a “Hey guy!” or “Hey girl!” meant so much more than just a greeting- it was his way of saying “I love you and care about you, tell me all about what’s going on!”

He was an active member of Body of Christ Community in Willoughby, where he served in many different roles, most notably on building projects. He faithfully served as a meal delivery driver for Lake County Meals on Wheels for 18 years. Jim was a skilled craftsman and woodworker, designing and building furniture pieces and decorations out of his home workshop.

Jim’s desire to serve and his hard work ethic were sharpened during his service in the United States Marine Corps., where he proudly served his country as a corporal from May, 1961 to his honorable discharge in May, 1967.

After working for many years at Towmotor, he retired from Western Reserve Office Supply in 2008. Despite being retired, Jim didn’t slow down, enthusiastically enjoying spending time and playing games with friends, attending concerts in the park in downtown Willoughby, taking trips, and he never tired of cheering on his grandchildren regardless of the sport they were playing.

He was dearly loved by those fortunate enough to be his family or call him friend, and will be profoundly missed. He is survived by his wife of 31 years, Maryann (née:Olszewski) (Simpkins) Harris; daughters,Tammy (Terry) Sullivan and Danielle (James) Davies; sons, Steve (Suzanne) Simpkins and Tod (Kim) Simpkins; ten grandchildren and 4 great-grandsons.

He was preceded in death by his parents, James Waldo and Esther (Bowlak) Harris, and sister Virginia Martin.

A celebration of life will be held at Body of Christ Community on June 1st, 2023. Family will receive friends from 10:00 am - 11:30, with a memorial service immediately following. The Revs. Michael J Currier and Eric B. Leissa will officiate.

A private graveside interment service for family will be held at a later date.