Mr. James Harris Sr.

James E. Harris Sr., affectionately known as "Uncle James" and "Jimi", passed away unexpectedly on February 18, 2026, in Atlanta, Georgia, at the age of 76. He was born on March 23, 1949, in Chicago, Illinois, to the late Dewitt Harris and Nancy Nowells Harris.

Jimi was a proud graduate of Hyde Park Academy High School, where he excelled as a standout player on the varsity basketball team. Following high school, he served honorably in the United States Army during the Vietnam era. While stationed in Germany, he played basketball for the U.S. Army team and trained as an X-ray Technician. Near the end of his service in Savannah, Georgia, he married Brenda Elaine Wallace before returning to his hometown of Chicago. After his honorable discharge, Jimi worked at Western Electric and later at Jackson Park Hospital as an X-ray Technician.

A lifelong lover of basketball, Jimi shared his passion with his community as a coach for the Chicago Park District and various public schools. Many young athletes were shaped by his guidance and enthusiasm. In semi-retirement, he served as a school safety officer before relocating to Atlanta to be closer to his Grandson and son.

He is survived by his son, James E. Harris Jr; daughters, Kattina M. Abram and Deidra Samuels; siblings, Patricia Nowells-Perry (Brian, Timmy, Kim) Ronald and Linda Harris (Robby), Dewitt and Judy Harris (Mike, Angie), Dennis Tyler (Megan), and Phylis Tyler (Corey). He was preceded in death by his wives, Brenda Elaine Wallace and Mignonette Fisher, and his late partner, Lucille Pratcher. Grandkids: Gerald R Harris, Venice Samuels, Sicily Samuels, Brenden Samuels, Kaniha Abram, Kamora Abram.

Life Family:

John Morrison (Penny, Rachel, Reva, John Jr) Brother, Gerrie Spencer. Life Kids: Debra (Benny) Donelson (Patrice, Brandy, BJ), Desharma Matthews, Robert Shepard, Ebony Spencer.

A memorial service will be held with nephews, his grandson, son, and brothers participating. Jimi's family takes comfort in knowing his spirit rests peacefully, perhaps still courtside in heaven, remote in hand. "Bought sense is the best sense." Psalm 23 and "Footprints" will guide him home.

Services will be held Saturday March 7, 2026, 1130 95th Street Chicago Illinois 60619 Greater Zion MB Church