“Devoted to his family, friends, and alma mater”
WATERBURY – James P. “Smiley” Harris Jr., age 54 of Waterbury, passed away unexpectedly on Tuesday, November 15, 2022, at Waterbury Hospital. He was the devoted husband of Michelle (Webster) Harris.
Jim was born November 1, 1968, in Waterbury, the son of James P. Sr. and Addie (Varilek) Harris. Jim had been employed for over 35 years at UPS in Watertown. He was very involved in his alma mater, Holy Cross High School, as its assistant varsity baseball coach since 1989, a position he still held at the time of his passing, as well as part of the Holy Cross Boys’ basketball team for over 25 years. He was an avid fan of the NY Yankees, Minnesota Vikings, and University of Michigan football. He was an active member of the Washington Hill Club, their golf league, and a member of the 1900 Club. His tireless commitment to his job and to Holy Cross High School was matched only by the love and importance of his family, especially his wife, daughters, brothers, and parents. He would always look forward to his annual family vacations to Myrtle Beach.
Left to honor his legacy and cherish his memory, along with his devoted wife of 28 years, Michelle, and his parents, are his daughters; Ashley and Kaylee, his brothers; Paul (Nichole) of Lincoln NE, and Michael (Veda) of Oxford, CT, as well as several nieces and nephews and many close friends.
A Memorial Gathering for Mr. Harris will be held on Sunday, November 20, 2022, from 3:00-6:00 p.m. followed by a Service of Remembrance at 6:00 p.m. at Casey’s Eastside Memorial Funeral Home and Cremation Care, 1987 East Main St @ Southmayd Rd Waterbury. Burial will be at the convenience of the family. To honor Jimmy’s memory and in lieu of flowers, donations to the “Harris Children Education Fund” c/o Webster Bank, 710 Wolcott Rd Wolcott CT 06716, are greatly appreciated by his family. Loving-kindness is always welcome, and it only takes a moment to offer a message of condolence and share a memory or words of comfort with the family and friends of someone that was important to you. Please visit funeral home’s tribute page at
www.caseyfunerals.com
. However, if you are able, attending a service is a thoughtful and caring way to show your support.
or send flowers to the family in memory of Mr. James Harris Jr., please visit our