Adams announces the passing of Reverend James Harris, Sr. “Bubba”, 70, who transitioned on Saturday, February 9, 2019 at his residence. Adams announces funeral services of Reverend James “Bubba” Harris, Sr. which will be held 11:00 A.M., Monday, February 18, 2019 at The Historic Nicholsonboro Baptist Church located 13319 Old Coffee Bluff Rd, Savannah, GA 31419. Interment: Georgia Veteran’s Memorial Cemetery in Glennville, GA.
OBITUARY: James “Bubba” Harris Sr. (A.K.A. “Barnwell”) was born on February 23, 1948 to John Francis Harris, Sr. and Henrietta Sams Harris in Savannah GA. James grew up in the White Bluff community and attended Haven Home Elementary school. He was a proud graduate of Sol C. Johnson High School, Class of 1965.
His love for athletics lead him to become a member of Johnson’s Atom Smashers football team. At an early age, James was baptized at Nicholsonboro Baptist Church, where his parents worshipped for more than half a century. He was an ardent church member and was active in Sunday School and other church activities.
James was ordained a Deacon and served faithfully until he left the city. In October 1966, at the height of the Viet Nam War, James made a unilateral decision to join the United States Army. He had a tour in Viet Nam from 1967-1968, followed by an overseas tour in Germany.
James received an honorable discharge in 1969. James was joined in Holy Matrimony to his longtime high school sweetheart, Doris Hicks, on October 20, 1968. They were blessed to celebrate their Golden Anniversary in 2018.
They are proud parents of two adult sons, James Harris, Jr. and Victor G. Harris. After completing his military tour of duty, James was employed by the Chatham County Fire Department. He was one of the first blacks to desegregate the City of Savannah Fire Department.
He retired from the department after 20 years of service. Despite his many years in the active workforce, James embarked on yet another career. He packed up the family and journeyed to New Orleans, Louisiana and assumed a position with United Airlines.
He was later employed in the oil industry and retired, for a second time, from Valero in 2009. Over the years, James’ love for the Lord and his commitment to be a true servant became stronger and he answered his calling to the ministry. He served as a Minister and a Pastor and at the time of his death, he was an Associate Pastor at Freedom in the Word Church in Kenner LA, under the leadership of Pastor Dwight Rixner.
Rev. Harris and his wife, Doris, ministered couples and mentored young men so that they could become good Christian husbands. James was preceded in death by his parents and two brothers, Floyd (who passed away as a toddler) and John Francis Harris, Jr
He is survived by a loving and devoted wife of 50-plus years, Doris Harris; two sons, James, Jr. (Jan) and Victor; nine grandchildren; one sister, Geraldine (Ronald) Pullin; two brothers, Joseph Harris and Alonzo (Mary) Harris; brothers-in-law, James Temple, Freddie Hicks and Jesse L. Roberson, Jr.; sister-in-law, Lydia M. Harris; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and extended family members. Order Flowers & Sign The Guestbook using the links on our website: www.
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