James Oron "Jimmy" Harris, 79, of Valles Mines died July 1, 2026, at his home. Mr. Harris was a U.S. Army veteran, having served during the Vietnam War. Rising to the rank of staff sergeant, he served with Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 1st Battalion, 504th Infantry, 82nd Airborne Division, one of the Army's most distinguished airborne units. After completing Airborne training, he earned the Parachutist Badge and graduated from the prestigious U.S. Army Ranger School, earning the coveted Ranger Tab. During his tour in the Republic of Vietnam from June 1969 to June 1970, he served in infantry operations and intelligence. He was known for his courage, leadership, professionalism and dedication. He was recognized with numerous honors, including two Bronze Star Medals, the Air Medal, the Army Commendation Medal, the Combat Infantryman Badge, the Vietnam Service Medal, the Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal, the Republic of Vietnam Gallantry Cross with Palm, the National Defense Service Medal and the Good Conduct Medal. Following his military service, he worked for more than 25 years for the Festus School District as a physical education teacher at Festus Elementary School, where he was known as "Coach Harris" to generations of students. Outside of the classroom, he loved being outdoors, hunting, fishing, mushroom hunting, wood carving, leatherworking and riding his motorcycle across the country. An avid animal lover, enjoyed spending time with them. He also was a member of VFW Post 3777. He will be remembered for his patience, sense of humor and care for others. Born Dec. 26, 1946, in Greenville, Miss., he was the son of the late James Lamar Harris and Hope (Lucas) Harris.
He is survived by his wife: Laura Jean Harris of Valles Mines; two stepchildren: Brian (Jamie) Jinkens of Dittmer and Alyssa (C.A. Barks) Jinkens of Vichy; two brothers: Randy Harris and Noel Harris, both of Greenville, Miss.; a sister: Wanda Borganelli of Pensacola, Fla.; two grandsons: Rhett and Knox; numerous nieces and nephews; and many other family members and friends.
Visitation is scheduled from 10:30 a.m. until services at noon Monday, July 13, at Mahn Twin City Chapel, 515 Collins Drive, in Festus, officiated by Pastor Ryan Sutton. Interment with military honors will follow in the National Cemetery at Jefferson Barracks. Memorials may be made to the Disabled American Veterans (DAV), Tunnel to Towers Foundation, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Shriners Hospitals for Children or the ASPCA. Arrangements are under the direction of Mahn Twin City Chapel.