Much loved husband, father, grandfather and great grandfather Arthur James Harris “AJ” passed away on November 13th, 2021, surrounded by the love of his life, his wife Lou Kimble Harris and his children. Born on October 9th, 1932 in Haughton, Louisiana, he was the eldest child of Paul and Genie Harris and big brother to Kitty, Yvonne, Joe and Polly. A veteran, AJ served in the US Navy, where with his 6’4” frame he soon earned the nickname ‘Shorty’.
AJ graduated with a Business Degree from LSU in 1961, receiving a Certificate of Merit for outstanding achievement. This was followed by a long career at Baton Rouge Lumber Company, ultimately as President, and later co-founding Martin Lumber Company.
AJ loved the water and was an excellent swimmer, water skier and fisherman, which he passed along to each of his children. He was also an avid card player and ping pong ace. However, at the heart of all of his activities was his family.
Throughout all of his life, AJ loved and revered the Lord. He would bow his head in quiet reverence and always giving thanks for the simplest of blessings.
A much adored giant of a man, AJ leaves behind his loving wife, Lou Kimble Harris; three children, Susan Harris Belgard (John), LouAnne Harris Smitherman, Patrick James Harris (Amelia); grandchildren, Brad, Sarah, Josh, Casey, Scott, Jesse, Charlotte, and Oliver; great grandchildren, Lainey, Lily, Cade, Miles, Rhett, Josie, Corbyn, Edyn, Ransom, Deacon, Holden, Boone, Ellie and Lincoln. Preceded in death by his parents, Paul and Genie Harris; son, John Stephen Harris; grandchild, Justin “Skate” Smitherman and one great grandchild, Maisy Belgard.
Visitation will take place at Greenoaks Funeral Home, 9595 Florida Blvd. Baton Rouge, on Wednesday, November, 17, 2021 from 12:00pm until service time of 2:00pm. Interment will immediately follow at Greenoaks Memorial Park.
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