Thomas Orville "Tom" Harris

Thomas "Tom" Orville Harris

Aug. 26, 1942 - Feb. 22, 2024

JEROME - Thomas "Tom" Orville Harris, 81, of Jerome, Idaho, passed away on February 22, 2024, in White Bird, Idaho while on one of his many fishing trips, doing what he loved. Tom was born on August 26, 1942, in Malad, Idaho to Helen and Orville Harris. He graduated from Nampa High School in 1961. While there, he excelled in many sports, such as, football, basketball, and track.

He then attended the University of Idaho and was a member of the Delta Tau Delta Fraternity. Shortly after, he became a cattle broker and remained so until he retired.

Tom married Katherine "Kathy" Ellen Harney on September 3, 1966. Also, at that time, he became a father to her daughter, Deanna, and later adopted her and raised her as his own. Their son, J.T., was born two years later.

Tom was a fun-loving husband, father, son, brother, and uncle. He enjoyed many great friendships over the years. Most would remember his complete inability to finish telling a joke, as he would be laughing so hard that he couldn't get to the punchline, EVER!

Tom was never happier than when he was in the great outdoors with friends and family. He was well-known as a great fisherman, even if he wasn't a great catcher. Another favorite hobby was dive bar hopping with Kathy, his wife of 57 years. His children fondly remember many mornings when he would belt out a very off-tune version of "Oh What a Beautiful Morning!" Tom was also known to cry like a baby during the movie "Love Story."

Tom will be deeply missed by all who knew him. He is survived by Kathy; Deanna (Paul) Hash; J.T. Harris (Heather Pringle); five grandchildren: Tyler, Alexi (great-grandchildren: Emerson and Cohen), Jordi, Zac, and Bryce; sisters: Connie Cummins, Debbie (Ted) Martinez, Maxine Urrutia; brother, Joe Harris; and numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, and brother, Don.