James R Harris

TWIN FALLS – James Ronald Harris, a 63-year-old resident of Bridgeview Estates in Twin Falls, passed away peacefully at St. Luke's Magic Valley Regional Medical Center with family at his side, on Monday, Jan. 7, 2013.

James was born Jan. 27, 1949, in Burley, Idaho, the son of Willie Clifton and Jeannine Alice (Wake) Harris. He attended school in Burley and Eureka, California. James traveled some in his younger days until an accident left him paralyzed and leaving him destined to spend his remaining days in a wheelchair.

James had a deep love for his Savior which helped to carry him through the difficulties he had to endure. He was loving and caring, and touched others with his courage and fortitude. James enjoyed life and especially the outdoors. He loved the rides in the mountains in springtime when the wild flowers bloomed and in the fall when the leaves turned golden. Often he would ride in his wheelchair down the canyon rim.

James attended the College of Southern Idaho, finishing the two-year course. Declining health prevented him from going longer.

James was preceded in death by his father, Willie C. Harris; brother-in-law, Barry Mabey; and a half-brother, Billy Harris.

He is survived by his mother, Jeannine Harris of Burley; three sisters, Sherry Oldfield, and Sherral (Devon) Jones both of Wellton, Arizona, and Janie (Layne) Rutschke of Rupert; a half- sister, Betty Jean (Ron) Hicks of South Carolina; and three brothers, Willie Michael Harris of Burley, Clifton Lee (Cyndee) Harris of Boise, and Barry Wade (Janet) Harris of Bend, Oregon.

The family would like to express appreciation to the staff at Bridgeview Estates and St. Luke's Hospital of Twin Falls for their compassionate, professional care.

He will be laid to rest at the Sunny Cedar Rest Cemetery in Almo.

A memorial service will be held at 11 a.m. Friday, Jan. 18, at the Rasmussen Funeral Home, 1350 E. 16th St., in Burley, with Bishop Layne Rutschke officiating.