James "Jim" Wellington Harris

James Wellington Harris was born June 21, 1936, on a farm in Doss, Missouri, to Warren and Evelyn (Cusick) Harris. He grew up on the farm with his three sisters and four brothers. Times were hard, but they enjoyed the simple things in life. He attended a country school in Doss and graduated from Salem High School. In his early twenties, Jim enlisted into the United States Army, and throughout his military career he served in the Army National Guard and Army Reserves. He furthered his education with ROTC and Southwest Missouri State University. Jim served during the Korean War and for his faithful and honorable service he earned several ribbons, letters, and awards to include a Letter of Commendation. Jim was a member of the Army Veterans of Foreign Wars, as well as being the Quartermaster for many years at the VFW Hall in Salem. On September 29, 1962, Jim was united in marriage to the love of his life, Rosemary Bristow. They were blessed with two children: Christy and Robert. Jim and Rosemary shared sixty-two years raising a family together and creating many lasting memories. He loved and enjoyed spending time with his family very much, especially his grandchildren and great-granddaughter. Jim’s working days were in upper management in the oil, gas and propane business. He was transferred twenty-two times from Missouri to Indiana, Florida, Western Kansas, and states in between. He always wanted to make a better life for his family and felt that they grew even closer in their relationships, moving so many times to new communities. Jim enjoyed motor home camping with his family. He and Rosemary also went south during the cold months to camp in Tybee Island Georgia for many years. During his retirement years he built a lawn mower and small engine shop, where he sold and repaired small engines in later years. He enjoyed working with his friend Ken during those years. If you know Jim, you know he loved talking and telling stories. He liked being outdoors and usually found tinkering around. He also enjoyed watching the St. Louis Cardinals baseball games. Jim passed away September 14, 2024, in Springfield, Missouri, at the age of eighty-eight years. He is survived by his loving wife: Rosemary Harris of Crocker, MO; son: Rob Harris and wife Laura of Ozark, MO; daughter: Christy Dixon and husband Rob of Willard, MO; sister: Mildred Gulley; brothers: Emery Harris and wife Judy, and Orvin Harris and wife Kay; grandchildren: Samantha Reed and husband Chance, Austin Harris and fiancé Shanna See, and Taylor Dixon; great-granddaughter: Charlie; as well as several nieces, nephews, other relatives, and dear friends. Preceding him in death were his parents: Warren and Evelyn Harris; his siblings: Barton, Martin, Frances, and Levenia. Jim made sure his family knew how much they were loved and how proud he was of them. He shared about great memories made together through the years. He and Rosemary cared for all of their family and friends, and he will be remembered fondly by everyone who loved him! Funeral Services for James Wellington Harris were held Saturday, September 28, 2024, in the Wilson Mortuary Salem Chapel with Pastor Chris Hendrix officiating. Eulogies were shared from his children. Song selections played were “Go Rest High on the Mountain”, “How Great Thou Art”, and “Amazing Grace”. Serving as Pallbearers were Ronald Stagner, Austin Harris, Emery Harris, Orvin Harris, Ben Gulley, and Allen Simpson. Honorary Pallbearers were Rob Harris, Ronnie Rebura, Rob Dixon, Barton Harris, and Martin Harris. Military Honors was provided by the United States Army and the American Legion Post 99. Burial was in the Cedar Grove Cemetery. Arrangements were the direction of Wilson Mortuary of Salem, Missouri. Memorial Contributions may be made in memory of Jim Harris to the VFW Post 6280 and left with Wilson Mortuary. Memorial Envelopes will be available. Online Condolences may be left at www.wilsonmortuary.com

James "Jim" Wellington Harris

June 21, 1936 - September 14, 2024