of Harrison, AR

May 14, 1933 - July 2, 2022

James Riley Harness Jr., age 89, of Harrison, Arkansas passed away Saturday, July 2, 2022. He was born Sunday, May 14, 1933, in Marshall, Arkansas, the youngest of 8 children of James Riley and Melinda (Turney) Harness Sr. He was preceded in death by his parents and his siblings, Earl, Clifford, Troy, Perry, Reva, and Roy Harness. He is survived by his sister, Veda "Jo" Smith.

James served in the U.S. Army from 1954 -1956 as a member of the 1st Cavalry Division. He was stationed in Japan with the Military Police. After returning home from service, James settled in Harrison and made a career selling shoes and boots. He was known for his radio spots that always ended in his trademark phrase "located in beautiful Downtown Harrison". He was a talented artist, whose paintings of horses, wildlife, and local scenery can be found in homes and businesses locally and beyond. His tomato gardens were legendary. James served faithfully as the song leader for many years at Southern Hills Missionary Baptist Church where he attended every time the doors were opened and his body was able. He will be remembered for his sense of humor, his gentle nature, but most importantly, for the legacy of faith that he left his family through his example.

James was a devoted husband, father, and Papa, and leaves behind a large family that eagerly awaits meeting him again one day in Heaven. He is survived by his beloved wife of 64 years, Barbara (Edmonson) Harness, and their three daughters and sons-in-law, Pam and Bob Parkhill, Paula and Chris Adams, and Penny and Jim Little. James is also survived by five grandchildren, Kristin (Todd) Dooley, Erica (Andy) Cason, Luke (Whitney) Adams, Jacob (Tess) Little, and Jackson Little; and eight great-grandchildren, Jenna, Morgan and Jake Dooley, Ty and Josie Cason, Camden and Layne Adams and Ellie Little, as well as a host of nieces, nephews, and cousins.



The funeral service was Thursday, July 7, 2022, at Woodland Baptist Church with Chris Adams officiating.

Visitation was Thursday until service time. Open Visitation was held Wednesday, July 6, 2022.

The interment was in Maplewood Cemetery in Harrison, Arkansas.

Pallbearers were Luke Adams, Jacob Little, Jackson Little, Todd Dooley, Andy Cason, and Craig Harness.

Obituary Provided By:
Roller-Christeson Funeral Home
519 North Spring Street
Harrison, AR  72601
www.rollerfuneralhomes.com