James J. Harris

A private family memorial graveside service for James J. Harris will be held on Saturday, August 22, 2026, at Prairie Home Cemetery in Holdrege, Nebraska, with Pastor Tom Thompson officiating.

James "Jim" Joseph Harris, 77 years of age, of Holdrege, passed away on August 4, 2026, at CHI Health Good Samaritan in Kearney, surrounded by his loving family. Jim was born in McCook, Nebraska, on November 13, 1948, the youngest of three children, born to Edward "Ed" Dale and Bernadine "Bernie" Mae (Wilcox) Harris. He was baptized and confirmed in the Episcopal Church in Holdrege. He attended Holdrege Schools, graduating with the class of 1967.

He pursued higher education at Kearney State College, earning a degree in Business. Jim worked at First National Bank in Hastings, Nebraska. He followed his heart and went back to school at the University of Nebraska at Lincoln, earning a degree in Construction Management. He then started Harris Construction Company in Lincoln, Nebraska, building businesses in Nebraska.

Jim was very artistic and loved to create. When he was younger, Jim enjoyed golfing and hunting.

He moved to Holdrege Memorial Homes assisted living in September of 2025. Jim enjoyed all the people, card games, activities, and the bell choir. He was an avid sports fan, and he especially enjoyed watching and cheering on his beloved Husker teams. Jim had a deep love for all animals, especially dogs. He enjoyed all the birds and squirrels his feeders attracted to his window, spending many hours watching them. Family was important to Jim. He loved visits, getting together for celebrations, shopping, and eating out. He knew Christ as his savior and is now reunited with his family.

Jim was preceded in death by his parents; grandparents; brothers: Robert "Bob" Harris; Donald "Don" Harris.

Jim is survived by two sisters-in-law: Rogene Harris of Holdrege; and Betty Jo Harris of Austin, Texas; nieces: Brenda (Dale) Gray of Holdrege; Jani (Brice) Thorell of Holdrege; Ami (Seth) Tobiassan of Austin; nephews: Robert "Skip" (Jennifer) Harris of Plano, Texas; Kip (Katie) Harris of Austin; Scott (Missy) Harris of San Clemente, California; and a host of great-nieces, great-nephews, other relatives, and friends.

There will be no visitation or memorial book signing. The family is honoring Jim's wish for cremation.

A memorial has been established in Jim's honor, and kindly suggested to the family for later designation.

Expressions of caring and kindness can be sent to the family at www.nelsonbauerfh.com

The Nelson-Bauer Funeral Home in Holdrege is in charge of the arrangements.