James "Jim" Preston Harris

James Preston Harris passed away in University Place, Washington on February 1st 2025. Jim was born January 5th, 1932 in Walla Walla, Washington. He was the third child of the late Otis and Bonnie Phillips Harris. 

Jim lived in Walla Walla until he moved with his family to Portland, Oregon in 1943. The family eventually ended up in San Barnardino, California where Jim graduated from San Bernardino High School in 1951. He then joined the Navy, serving four years in the Seabees during the Korean War.

Upon his discharge from the Navy, Jim attended San Barnardino Valley College, receiving an Associate in Arts degree in 1957. He then transferred to Oregon State University where he received a Bachelor of Science degree in Natural Resources in 1959. After a few years working as an urban planner, Jim received a Master’s degree in Urban Planning from the University of Washington in 1969. He was appointed Planning Director of Kent, Washington where he served for 31 years, retiring in 2000.

In 1970, Jim married Gay Petricka and they had three children, Michael, Christopher (Carrie), and Susan (Jason). Jim was preceded in death by his wife Gay, sisters Margaret and Dorothy, and brother Bill. He is survived by his children and grandchildren, Alexis, Aiden, Avery, Austin, Amaya, and Arlo.

He loved reading US History from the natural beginning through the Civil War. He also had a passion for model railroads. In addition, he was an avid gardener who took pride in his vibrant flowers. He always looked forward to celebrating holidays with his family and spending time with the grandkids. Ever the urban planner, he enjoyed taking the scenic route on long drives, pointing out all of the city limits and ordinances along the way.

A private remembrance will be conducted by his family.