The community is still mourning the death of a well-known “businessman” known as “Big Daddy,” who died earlier this month.
James “Big Daddy” died on July 4 at the age of 53. His memorial service was held on July 15, 2023, at the Pine Grove Baptist Church in West Monroe, La.
“Big Daddy” was well known in the local community, and his death has left a void among those who knew him.
His official obituary reads as follows:
James Henry Harris was born to the late Herbert Harris, Sr., and Pearlie Mae Harris on September 29, 1969, in Monroe, LA. Most of his family and close friends called him “Big Daddy.” On Tuesday, July 4, 2023, around 1:00 a.m., James received his final service call.
James accepted Christ as his Lord and Savior at an early age. He was baptized at Orange Hill Baptist Church in Rhyme, LA.
He attended Richland Parish school system and graduated from Rayville High School. During his high school years, he played football for the Rayville Hornets. James was an outstanding football player with a passion to lead and excel in the game. His classmates and others referred to him as “Big Wolf.”
He was an exceptional man, one who loved God, family, friends, and his jobs. James was a quiet but fun, energetic, and hardworking man who was a jokester and loved to mentor and encourage young people.
James was employed by Ouachita Parish Police Jury for over 26 years and his pride and joy, “Big Daddy Lawn Care.”
Serving the Lord for years, James was united with Spring Hill Baptist Church under the leadership of Reverend Ronald D. Lee. There James enjoyed serving as a member and later became a faithful deacon where no jobs were too large or too small for him.
On March 20, 1998, James was joined in holy matrimony with the love of his life, Lakeisha Jackson Harris (his Boo). They shared 25 wonderful years of marriage.
James was preceded in death by his parents, Herbert Sr. and Pearlie Mae Harris; one brother, Herbert Harris, Jr.; and one nephew, Carson Blackmon.
He leaves to cherish his memories with his loving and devoted wife, Lakeisha Harris; two sons, Jamon Harris (Jennifer) of Calhoun, LA and Jamion Harris of West Monroe, LA; three sisters, Sherry Harris of Monroe, LA, Sandra Hardman (Ricky) of Rayville, LA, and Jacqueline Harris of Monroe, LA; one brother, Carl Harris of Ruston, LA; one aunt/second mom, Irene Treadway of Monroe, LA; mother and father-in-law who loved him dearly, Eugene and Effie Jackson; he also leaves behind three special friends, Budron Jackson, Edward Baker, and James Williams; and a host of nieces, nephews, and other family and friends.
