James Arvel Harris

February 3, 1926 - September 17, 2019

James Arvel “Pete” Harris, 93, went to be with Jesus on September 17, 2019. He was born and raised in Welti, Alabama to his late parents, Elmer and Ruby Gorham Harris. Also preceding him in death were his wife of 61 years, Dean Sloan Harris and sister, Dot Burrow. He is survived by his wife of 11 years, Mary Sue Shadinger, daughters, Pamela Shotts (Dennis) and Deborah Glenn (Ed), four stepchildren, Darrell Shadinger (Shirlie), Ronnie Shadinger (Penny), Susan Roy (Kelly), and Kim Wilabay (James); brother, Charles Edward Harris; and sister, Jackey Connor. He is also survived by grandchildren, Mike Shotts (Babbi), Jeffrey Glenn, Joel Glenn, and Joseph Glenn; eight great grandchildren and many step grandchildren and step great grandchildren. He proudly served his country in the U.S. Navy during World War II in the Pacific Theatre. He was employed and retired from American Cast Iron Pipe Co. (ACIPCO) where he was known as “Jim” Harris. He was a deacon at ACIPCO Baptist Church and Hilldale Baptist Church in Centerpoint. He was most recently a member of Glennwood Baptist Church in Morris where he served faithfully and went on many mission trips. He loved the Lord and his family with all his heart and will be greatly missed. The family wished to express gratitude to Kindred Hospice for all their help with Mr. Harris’ comfort and care. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Alabama Baptist Children’s Home. Visitation will be Friday, September 20, 2019 from 1:00 p.m. until 2:00 p.m. at The New Gardendale Funeral Home with the funeral service to follow at 2:00 p.m. in the chapel of the funeral home. Burial will be at Glennwood Baptist Church Cemetery.