James M Harris Jr.

James M. Harris Jr., 88, of Peachtree City, GA, died Saturday, April 16th, 2011, at his home in Peachtree City. Mr. Harris was cremated and his family will hold a private celebration of his life in Greenville, S.C.

He was born, October 30, 1922, in Antler, OK, to James M. Sr., and Verta R. Harris. Mr. Harris was married to Jo Alice Perry, October 3, 1943. They had 2 children together. Jo Alice preceded James in death in 1998.

Mr. Harris remarried to Lavada Ann King of Fairburn, GA., February 14, 2001.

Mr. Harris graduated high school in 1931 and attended Oklahoma State University before enlisting into the United States Air Force in June of 1941. During World War II, he was a B-25 bomber pilot, flying 59 combat missions while stationed in Corsica, Sicily, South France and Italy with the 310th Bomb Group, 380th Bomb Squadron 57th Bomb wing. He was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross and several other metals on discharge. Mr. Harris retired after 22 years of service as a Captain. Mr. Harris worked with the Federal Aviation Agency, as an Air Traffic Controller for 23 years in El Paso, TX., and Atlanta, GA., prior to his retiring.

Mr. Harris enjoyed reading, ballroom dancing, traveling, hunting, fishing and spending time with his family and friends. He was a member of Yaarab Shriners A.A.O.N.M.S of Atlanta, GA. He was a lifetime member of the 57th Bomb Wing Association, the VFW Post 7007, of East Point, GA., Moose Club of Atlanta and of the Masonic Lodge in Greenville, S.C. Mr. Harris was a member of the Flat Creek Baptist Church in Fayetteville, GA.

Survivors include his wife, Lavada; sons and daughter-in-laws, James M. Harris III and wife Brenda; Joseph Perry Harris and wife Jean; grandchildren, Jason Harris and wife Tina; Bryan Harris and wife Alex; Chad Harris and wife Emily; Ryan Harris and wife Marjorie; Marney Harris; Alice Harris; 6 great-grandchildren; 3 step-children; 8 step-grandchildren; and several step-great-grandchildren.

Arrangements made under the direction of Carmichael-Hemperley Funeral Home, Peachtree City, GA.