James Needham Harris

A celebration of the life of James “Jim” Needham Harris will be held at Bush River Memorial Gardens, 5400 Bush River Road, Columbia, SC 29212 on Tuesday, April 8, 2025 at 3:00 p.m. The family will receive friends following the service at 4990 Quail Lane, Columbia, SC 29206. Dunbar Funeral Home, Devine Street Chapel, is assisting the family.

Jim passed away on Friday, April 4, 2025, surrounded by his beloved family. Born on March 19, 1959, in Raleigh, North Carolina, he was the son of Joanne Rasberry Harris and the late Merrelle W. Harris. After graduating from Irmo High School, Jim earned his degree from the University of South Carolina in 1981, where he was an active member of Pi Kappa Alpha Fraternity.

Following graduation, Jim married and began his career in the insurance industry in Rock Hill, SC, where he started a family. His career path later took him to Johns Creek, Georgia, where he spent many wonderful years raising his two children.

Jim loved the Gamecocks, Atlanta Braves baseball, and spending quality time with his loved ones. In 2004-2005, Jim and his family hosted an exchange student, Nina Sopaj, whom he loved as a daughter. Recently the family was able to spend cherished time on a trip to Paris, Prague, and Germany visiting her.

Most recently, Jim embraced the cherished role of “Pop Pop” to his grandchildren, Harry and Mary-Austin. He found immense joy in visiting them, playing with them, and creating lasting memories together during his many visits to Atlanta.

In recent years, Jim moved back to the Columbia area to be closer to his mother and siblings. He had a deep appreciation for time spent near the water and was excited to begin this new chapter of his life alongside his girlfriend, Shari Durkee.

Jim is survived by his children and grandchildren: his daughter, Anne-Catherine Madden (Joe) of Decatur, GA, and grandchildren, Harry and Mary-Austin; and his son, Drew Harris of Great Falls, SC. He is also survived by his mother, Joanne Harris of Columbia, SC; his brother, Greg Harris (Nancy) of Columbia, SC; his sister, Elizabeth Harris of Columbia, SC; as well as his nieces. He was predeceased by his father, Merrelle Harris.

The family wishes to extend their deepest gratitude to the exceptional staff at Lexington Medical Center for their compassionate care during this time.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Camp Cole.