Jim Harris

Jimmie "Jim" Harris, 87, of Gainesville, Florida, passed away peacefully on August 6, 2026.

Jim was born on October 13, 1938, in Jasper, Alabama to Andrew A. Harris and Myrtle W. Harris. He lived a life defined by service, faith, leadership, and devotion to family.

A graduate of North Miami Senior High School's Class of 1957, Jim continued his education at Miami-Dade Community College, where he earned an Associate in Arts degree with a major in Police Science and Criminology. His commitment to serving others began early and became the foundation of a distinguished career in both the military and law enforcement.

Jim entered active duty with the United States Army in April 1959 and served until October of that year. He continued his military service as a Staff Sergeant with the Florida National Guard Army Reserve, including assignments with Company A 1st Battalion 211th Infantry; Terminal Service Company; and the 181st Military Police Company. In 1964, he attended Officer Candidate School and was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant in the Florida National Guard Army Reserve. In 1968, he served as Commander of the Anti-Sniper Assault Team. Jim was honorably discharged in 1972 with the rank of First Lieutenant.

While serving his country, Jim also began his career as a police officer in 1960 with the North Miami Beach Police Department. He graduated from the prestigious FBI National Academy in 1974, further strengthening the leadership and professionalism that defined his service, retiring in 1990 as Deputy Chief of Police. Throughout his remarkable 30-year law enforcement career, Jim earned numerous commendations and awards, including the North Miami Beach Combat Cross (1961), the North Miami Beach Medal of Valor (1972), twice awarded the North Miami Beach Distinguished Service Medal, the North Miami Beach Meritorious Service Medal, and the North Miami Beach Good Conduct Medal with Attachment recognizing 28 years of exemplary service.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Jim will be remembered most for his unwavering faith, generous spirit, and dedication to his community. He was a devoted member of the Methodist Church and an active participant in the Via de Cristo community. He proudly supported veterans through organizations including American Legion Post 257 and Forty & Eight Voiture 890. A lifelong student of military history, Jim enjoyed learning, sharing stories, and honoring those who served before him.

On August 6, 1960, Jim married the love of his life, Mary Harris. Together they shared 66 years of marriage, building a loving family and creating a legacy that spans multiple generations.

Jim is survived by his beloved wife, Mary Harris of Gainesville; daughter, Sharon (Jim) Drotos; son, Blake (Vivian) Harris; and son, Sean (Christina) Harris. He was known as Pop Pops to his grandchildren: Daniel (Margaret) Drotos, Hope (Rudy) Ramirez, Blake A. (Taylor) Harris, Marisa Harris, Joseph (Keaton Calhoun) Harris, Brooke (Jacques Boeke) Harris, and Erin Harris. He was also blessed with great-grandchildren: Daniel Drotos, Jr., Emily Drotos, Emma Ramirez, Rudy Ramirez, Christian Ramirez, Sloane Harris, and Blake R. Harris.

Jim was preceded in death by his parents, Andrew A. Harris and Myrtle W. Harris, and his sister, Jeanne (Harris) Lindstrom.

A funeral service and burial will be held on Friday, August 14, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Forest Meadows Cemetery - Central, 4100 NW 39th Avenue, Gainesville, Florida. A reception will immediately follow at Wesley United Methodist Church, 826 NW 23rd Avenue, Gainesville, Florida.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in Jim's honor to Wesley United Methodist Church.

Jim's life was marked by service to his country, his community, his church, and his family. His integrity, faith, and dedication touched countless lives, and his legacy will continue through the family he cherished and the many people he inspired. He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Forest Meadows Funeral Home, 725 NW 23rd Ave, Gainesville FL 32609