James Edward Harris Jr. Passes Away at 78 Surrounded by Loved Ones — Beloved Husband, Father, Grandfather, Veteran Craftsman, and Pillar of the Pewee Valley Community Leaves a Legacy of Faith, Family, and Service
It is with profound sorrow and reverence that we announce the passing of our beloved James Edward Harris Jr., who departed this life on April 19, 2025, at the age of 78, surrounded by the love and presence of his cherished family in Pewee Valley, Kentucky. His transition from this world marks the close of a life rich with purpose, defined by selfless service, steadfast faith, and the unconditional love he extended to all who knew him. Though James’s physical presence is no longer with us, the light of his spirit, the depth of his character, and the enduring example he set will continue to echo in the hearts of the many lives he touched.
A Life Rooted in Legacy and Love
Born on January 12, 1947, in Pewee Valley, Kentucky, James Edward Harris Jr. was the eldest of four children born to the late James Edward Harris Sr. and Margaret Louise (Taylor) Harris. From a young age, James exhibited a quiet strength and an innate sense of responsibility that would come to define his role in the family and later, in the larger world around him. Growing up in a modest, hardworking household, James learned the values of perseverance, honesty, faith, and compassion early in life—values he would carry and exemplify throughout his nearly eight decades on Earth.
His formative years were filled with the warmth of small-town life, where community mattered and every face was familiar. James attended Pewee Valley Elementary and later graduated from Oldham County High School, where he excelled academically and was known for his humble demeanor, integrity, and mechanical aptitude. Following his graduation, he went on to apprentice in masonry under his uncle, Thomas “Tommy” Harris, eventually becoming one of the most respected stone masons in the entire region.
But James was not only a craftsman; he was a man of many dimensions—devoted husband, father, grandfather, deacon, friend, mentor, and servant of God.
A Devoted Husband and Family Man
James met the love of his life, Clara Mae Robinson, at a church youth revival in 1966. Their bond was immediate and profound, rooted in mutual respect, shared values, and a love for God and family. They were married in August 1968, embarking on a lifelong journey of companionship that lasted over 56 years. Their union was blessed with four children: Michael Edward Harris, Diane Elaine Harris-Walker, Robert Thomas Harris, and Kendra Michelle Harris-Lowery. Each of them carried forward James’s values of humility, integrity, and hard work in their own lives, a living testament to the upbringing he and Clara Mae so lovingly provided.
James’s love for his children was unwavering. He was a constant presence at school recitals, sports events, and church programs. He led by example—disciplining with compassion, guiding with wisdom, and always offering a listening ear. His counsel was sought not only by his children but by nieces, nephews, and extended family who viewed him as a father figure. When grandchildren entered his life, James embraced the role of “Papa” with pride and joy. He was a tireless supporter of their dreams, often helping with school projects, attending graduations, and sharing stories of life and faith that became cherished memories for all.
James’s home was not just a residence—it was a sanctuary of love, built brick by brick by his own hands. Every corner of the Harris family home reflected his craftsmanship and care—from the finely chiseled fireplace that served as the gathering spot for holidays to the garden walls he built where his grandchildren played.
Master Craftsman: A Life in Stone
Known throughout Kentucky and neighboring states for his expertise in masonry, James Edward Harris Jr. elevated stonework to a true art form. With over 50 years of hands-on experience, he left an indelible mark on countless structures—churches, schools, public memorials, private homes, and historical restorations. His portfolio of work spanned both rural and urban spaces, and his fingerprints can be found in everything from the Pewee Valley Courthouse renovations to intricately detailed fountains in private estates across Oldham County.
James’s specialty lay in working with natural stone, and he was known for his uncanny ability to blend materials seamlessly with their environment. He often said, “The stone has a story—you just have to listen.” That reverence for his medium earned him not only admiration but deep respect among peers and clients alike. He was frequently consulted by architects and preservationists on historic sites, his opinion considered gold standard in the trade.
His hands bore the story of labor—rough, calloused, strong. Yet, they also carried gentleness, precision, and a deep-rooted pride in the creation of something that would last beyond his years. Apprentices and young tradesmen often sought him out for guidance, and James was always generous with his time. Many who learned under him went on to become master masons themselves, crediting him not only for their technical skills but also for instilling in them a code of honor in craftsmanship.
In 2009, James was honored with a Lifetime Achievement Award by the Kentucky Stoneworkers Guild. Yet, true to his humble nature, he quietly accepted the award, thanking “God, his family, and the stone” in his brief acceptance speech.
A Man of Deep and Unshakable Faith
Perhaps more enduring than his earthly contributions was James’s spiritual legacy. A lifelong member of First Baptist Church of Pewee Valley, James was baptized at age 12 and remained an active member throughout his life. He served in multiple leadership roles, including as Deacon, Trustee Board Chair, Men’s Ministry Coordinator, and Sunday School teacher. In every capacity, he was a man of unwavering faith, known for his quiet wisdom, comforting presence, and sincere devotion to the teachings of Christ.
He led prayer services, visited the sick, provided food for the hungry, and always found time to lend a hand in church renovations—often doing the work himself. His faith wasn’t performative—it was deeply personal, expressed through consistent actions and loving service.
Those who worshipped alongside James speak of him in the most reverent terms. He was a spiritual mentor to many, especially young men in the congregation who were navigating life’s challenges. He was known for saying, “Your walk must match your talk,” a philosophy he lived every day.
Even in his final days, confined to a hospital bed, James continued to read scripture, pray with his family, and offer words of encouragement to those around him. Nurses and hospice workers often commented on the peace that seemed to radiate from him, even as his physical strength faded.
Community Involvement and Acts of Quiet Heroism
James’s contributions to the Pewee Valley community went far beyond his church and profession. He was an active volunteer with local charities, food banks, and youth mentorship programs. He participated in city council meetings, not to seek recognition or advancement, but to advocate for better infrastructure, fair housing, and opportunities for underrepresented youth.
One of his proudest achievements was the founding of the Pewee Valley Youth Skill Builders Program in 1997. The program provided hands-on training in masonry, carpentry, and plumbing for young men and women interested in the trades. Over the years, it helped dozens gain employment, avoid trouble, and find purpose. James not only taught classes, he personally financed scholarships, bought tools, and helped graduates get placed into apprenticeships.
Neighbors often recall James as a man who could be counted on—whether to shovel snow off an elderly neighbor’s driveway, fix a broken fence, or simply lend a listening ear. His kindness was not loud or grand—it was steady, consistent, and deeply impactful.
He often quoted Proverbs 11:25: “A generous person will prosper; whoever refreshes others will be refreshed.” That generosity defined his every interaction.
A Humble Soul with a Towering Presence
Despite his many accomplishments, James never sought praise or recognition. He often deflected compliments with a quiet smile and a gentle nod. To him, his life’s work was simply “doing what needed to be done.” His humility was matched only by his strength—both physical and moral.
His voice was calm and measured, rarely raised, but always heard. He believed in thoughtful action, respectful dialogue, and always taking the time to understand before passing judgment. He was the person people turned to in times of crisis—not because he had all the answers, but because his presence brought calm, wisdom, and faith.
Final Days and Peaceful Transition
James was diagnosed with a chronic heart condition in 2023 but continued his work and community involvement with the same vigor and optimism that defined his life. In the final months, as his health declined, he remained surrounded by family, friends, and fellow church members who visited often to pray, laugh, and reminisce.
On the morning of April 19, 2025, in the quiet of his home, James Edward Harris Jr. took his final breath while holding the hand of his wife Clara Mae, his children at his side, and a gospel hymn softly playing in the background. It was a peaceful passing—one that reflected the life he had lived: full of grace, surrounded by
