Bishop Dr. James Lewis Harris

Obituary of Bishop Dr. James Lewis Harris

"I have fought the good fight; I have finished the race; I have kept the faith." – 2 Timothy 4:7

Bishop James Lewis Harris, DHL, a beloved pastor, devoted husband, loving father, "Brother Harris," and esteemed educator, transitioned to glory on Saturday, November 30, 2024. A life rooted in faith, service, and education, Bishop Harris leaves behind a legacy that will endure in the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Born on January 28, 1947, in Manchester, Georgia, James was the second child of the late Jimmie Lee Harris and Ruby Lee (Fuller) Davis. From an early age, he demonstrated a passion for learning, resilience, and a deep love for God—values instilled by his family and the nurturing community around him. From humble beginnings, born and raised in disenfranchised neighborhoods of the Jim Crow South, he developed resilience and determination to rise against all odds, even after the loss of his father at the tender age of three. Despite these challenges, he excelled academically, graduating from Spencer High School in Columbus, Georgia, in 1964. His commitment to education continued as he earned a Bachelor of Arts degree from Paine College in Augusta, GA; a Master of Education degree from LaGrange College in LaGrange, GA; and an Honorary Doctorate of Humane Letters from LaGrange College, LaGrange, GA.

James Harris accepted Christ at an early age, embarking on a lifelong commitment to ministry and education. In 1975, he founded A House of the Living God, Church of Jesus Christ, a sanctuary of faith and hope where he ministered for 49 years. Under his inspired leadership, the church flourished spiritually and became a cornerstone of the community, fostering programs that uplifted countless individuals and families. Among his many achievements was the establishment of Christian Way Academy (1984–2014), a Christian school that shaped generations of young minds. Through his visionary leadership, the academy produced distinguished educators, lawyers, GRAMMY and EMMY Award-winning producers, musicians, actors, authors, global thought leaders, entrepreneurs, social workers, psychologists, therapists, scientists, and more.

As an educator, Bishop Harris was equally devoted. He taught and mentored as a high school teacher, college professor at LaGrange College, and Academic Counselor for the Morehouse College Upward Bound program. He believed deeply in the transformative power of education and dedicated his life to creating opportunities for students to realize their potential and embrace brighter futures.

On June 23, 1974, Bishop Harris united in holy matrimony with Carolyn Parks. Together, they built a family grounded in faith, love, and resilience. Blessed with eight children, he was a devoted patriarch whose wisdom, kindness, and unconditional love enriched the lives of his family.

Bishop Harris will be remembered for his unwavering faith, compassionate heart, and steadfast commitment to the betterment of others. His life’s work and ministry impacted generations, inspiring countless individuals to lead lives of purpose and service.

 He is survived by his loving wife of 50 years, Dr. Carolyn Harris; his cherished children: Naomi (Carey) Hines, Antipas Harris, Norman (Alicia) Harris, Miriam Harris, Alexander (Emily) Harris, Alonzo Harris, David (Deborah) Harris, and Mia Harris; beloved grandchildren: Gabrielle Hines, Logan Harris, Ashtyn Harris, Bentley Harris, Journi Harris, and Phoenix Harris; bonus grandchildren: Dyshon Hines, Jazir Johnson, and Julian Fernandez; siblings: Cora Dobson, Leroy Davis, and Ricky Miller; godchildren: Eleanor Childs Parks, Antonio Owens, and Jessica Huff Yeazel; and a host of nieces, nephews, extended family members, and the devoted Associate Pastor Jerry Adatsi, Administrator, Jenie Carter and congregation of A House of the Living God, COJC. He was preceded in death by his brothers, Larry Harris and Donald Gamble.

"Well done, good and faithful servant. Enter the joy of your Lord."May his memory be a blessing to all who knew him, and may his legacy continue to inspire faith, love, and service for generations to come.

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