Family and friends gather to pay tribute at Jim Harris' memorial service.
The Columbia community gathers to celebrate the life of James ‘Jim’ Needham Harris, who passed away on April 4, 2025. A memorial service will be held on April 8 at Bush River Memorial Gardens, followed by a gathering at his family’s home. Jim is remembered for his passion for family, community, and sports.
Columbia, SC – The community is coming together to celebrate the life of James “Jim” Needham Harris after his passing on April 4, 2025. He will be remembered in a special memorial service set to take place on Tuesday, April 8, 2025, at 3:00 p.m. at Bush River Memorial Gardens, located at 5400 Bush River Road. Following this heartfelt celebration, the family has invited friends to join them at their home on 4990 Quail Lane, Columbia, SC 29206, where they can share stories, comfort one another, and honor Jim’s memory.
Born on March 19, 1959, in Raleigh, North Carolina, Jim’s life was filled with accomplishments and cherished moments. He was the son of Joanne Rasberry Harris, who continues to reside in Columbia, and the late Merrelle W. Harris. Jim’s educational journey led him to Irmo High School, followed by a degree from the University of South Carolina, where he graduated in 1981. His college days were vibrant as he joined the ranks of the Pi Kappa Alpha Fraternity, forming lifelong friendships and memories.
After earning his degree, Jim embarked on a career in the insurance industry, beginning his professional journey in Rock Hill, SC, where he also started his family. This heartfelt transition led him to Johns Creek, Georgia, where he raised his two children, Anne-Catherine and Drew Harris, pouring his love and dedication into fatherhood.
Jim was a devoted fan, cheering on his beloved Gamecocks and Atlanta Braves. A particularly notable chapter in his life was when he and his family welcomed an exchange student, Nina Sopaj, into their home from 2004 to 2005. Nina became an integral part of Jim’s life, and the bond created between them is valued as one of a father-daughter relationship. Recently, the trio embarked on an unforgettable journey together, exploring Paris, Prague, and Germany, creating memories that will last a lifetime.
As time went by, Jim transitioned back to his roots in the Columbia area to be close to his family, especially his beloved mother and siblings. He embraced this new chapter of life with a heart full of love, especially in his cherished role as “Pop Pop” to his grandchildren, Harry and Mary-Austin. Their time together was filled with laughter, adventures, and precious family moments during visits to Atlanta — a testament to the strong family bond that Jim valued deeply.
Jim leaves behind a legacy of love and compassion. He is survived by his daughter, Anne-Catherine Madden and son-in-law Joe from Decatur, GA, along with his son Drew Harris from Great Falls, SC. His mother, Joanne Harris, brother Greg Harris and sister Elizabeth Harris, both from Columbia, SC, also carry forward his spirit. The family is incredibly thankful to the staff at Lexington Medical Center for the compassionate care they provided during Jim’s decline.
In lieu of flowers, the family has requested that contributions be made to Camp Cole, a cause that would honor Jim’s caring nature and warm spirit. As friends, family, and the larger community prepare to reflect on Jim’s life, they will undoubtedly remember him as a man who embraced life fully and touched the hearts of all who knew him.
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