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James Harrison Obituary

James "Kimo" Harrison, 83 of Phoenix, AZ passed away July 6, 2025 Kimo was born on January 27, 1942 in Honolulu, Hawaii to David & Thelma Akana. The youngest of 4 children, he was deeply proud of his Hawaiian heritage. At a young age, the family relocated to St Louis, MO. He often spoke fondly of his years in Missouri and the lifelong friendships he formed there. Among his most cherished stories were those involving his stepfather, PGA star E.J. "Dutch" Harrison who inspired his lifelong passion for golf Kimo eventually found his way to Phoenix, Arizona, where he met the love of his life Molly. They were married for over 50 years and built a life filled with friendships, travel and shared joy. Kimo spent over 4 decades in the retail industry working as a sales rep across the southwest. Those who knew Kimo will remember his sharp wit, his love of golf, his enthusiasm for watching sports, and his excitement for a day at the racetrack. But above all, he will be remembered for his devotion to family.. He is survived by his beloved wife, Molly, and his best friend and sister, Marty Bennedek. Kimo's extended family stretched from Hawaii to Arizona and beyond. He will be dearly missed by nephews Jeff Hail (children: Brenna and Griffin), Matt Hail, Ken Scally, Andy Taylor ( son Cooper and mom Therese), and Dereck Kay (Marcella and Theron); his nieces Chandra Polk (Wes, and daughter Casey) Kendra Sund (Alex and children Kendall and Kayden), Bethany Kay (Kevin sons Vinnie & Chase) Shelby Taylor (son Colten), and Kelsey Wetlaufer (Karl and son Walker); and his sisters-in-law Betsy Scally and Kathy Lipsky, and brother-in-law Bill (Carol) Kay. His Hawaiian family was extensive, including many cousins, nieces and nephews. "Ohana means nobody gets left behind or forgotten." Kimo leaves behind a legacy of unforgettable memories and laughter. He was a caring, unique individual who will be missed by all who knew him. ALOHA Kimo until we see you again. To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of James P Harrison, please visit our floral store.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by KNXV on Jul. 10, 2025.

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