James Harris Jr.'s Obituary
James Harris Jr. “Diamond Jim” | “Big Jim” | “Diamond Jay”
February 25, 1943 – January 28, 2026
James Harris Jr., lovingly known as “Diamond Jim,” “Big Jim,” and “Diamond Jay,” passed away peacefully in Oakland, California, on Wednesday, January 28, 2026, at the age of 82, following a courageous and dignified battle with cancer. He was surrounded by love.
James was born on February 25, 1943, in Lake Charles, Louisiana, the firstborn son of Thelma and James Harris, Sr. He was raised in Berkeley, California, alongside his siblings Robert, Gladys, and Mary, in a close-knit family grounded in faith, discipline, and service.
A proud graduate of Berkeley High School, Class of 1961, James earned his Associate of Arts degree from Contra Costa College and later graduated from Utah State University in 1965 with a Bachelor of Science degree. A dominant defensive lineman, he earned the nickname “Diamond Jim” for his toughness, consistency, and reliability.
In 1965, James was drafted into professional football and went on to proudly play for the original New York Jets from 1965 to 1967, appearing in 42 games and starting in 40 of them. Known for his integrity both on and off the field, James carried himself with humility, strength, and deep respect for the game. He later had brief professional stints with the Minnesota Vikings and the Bridgeport Jets of the Atlantic Coast Football League and remained a proud member of the NFL Alumni.
While football brought James national recognition, his true passion was serving his community. After his playing career, he devoted himself to mentoring young people, serving for many years as a coach and role model at the Theodore D. Young Community Center (formerly the Greenburgh Youth Center). Through coaching football and track, he used sports to teach discipline, confidence, and perseverance — shaping countless young lives along the way.
James also became a respected entrepreneur and community leader in Westchester County, New York. He founded Diamond Jay’s, a well-known social landmark on Kensico Avenue in White Plains, NY that served as a gathering place for celebration, culture, and connection. His presence brought people together, and his generosity made everyone feel welcome.
Later in life, James continued his commitment to service through his work as a professional home inspector and project manager, particularly in the California Bay Area. Known for his attention to detail and unwavering integrity, he helped homeowners protect their investments and took great pride in the quality of his work. Even after being diagnosed with cancer, James continued working for as long as he was able, finding purpose and fulfillment in helping others. Throughout his illness, he deeply appreciated the medical professionals who cared for him and formed a special bond with his doctors — especially Dr. Hong — whose care and compassion meant a great deal to him.
Beyond all professional accomplishments and community recognition, James was, above all else, a devoted father and grandfather — roles he cherished most deeply. After the heartbreaking loss of his twin daughter to cancer, Jim carried that grief quietly, yet never stopped honoring her memory. If you knew Jim, you knew how proud he was of his daughter; he spoke of her often and carried her in his heart always.
James was also a loving brother, uncle, mentor, and friend, known for his kindness, warmth, humor, and unwavering spirit. He shared an especially close bond with his beloved daughter, Linda, whom he affectionately called his “twin,” speaking with her multiple times a day simply to check in and offer encouragement. He also found comfort and joy in his lifelong passion for collecting sports trading cards and comic books — a hobby inherited from his father that brought him peace, particularly during his illness.
Jim will also be remembered as a fun-loving man with a big heart. He was always willing to help family and friends and was often the go-to person for daily phone calls, funny stories, and thoughtful life advice. He cherished his time with his dear friend Roy, as well as many lifelong friends from Utah State and his close friend Romero. Jim had a remarkable way of making people feel seen, supported, and valued. His warmth, generosity, and genuine spirit left a lasting impression on everyone he met.
James was predeceased by his parents, Thelma and James Harris, Sr.; his brother, Robert Gene Harris; and his beloved daughter, Lynn Annette Harris Jenkins.
He leaves to cherish his memory his devoted daughter Linda Jeanette Harris; his sisters Gladys Harris and Mary Dupree; his grandsons Jaylen Jenkins and Javon Jenkins; his nephew Malik Harris; his niece Judge Ayana N. Harris (Samuel Brinson); Kaliah Harris, Elijah Harris; Diane Leven; Kaidyn, Hylan, and Kace Brinson; niece Donyette and Rieanna Dupree; and neice Felecia Harris; Leilani Goudeau and a host of other loving family members, extended relatives, former players, colleagues, and dear friends.
James Harris Jr. lived a life defined by strength, service, humility, and love. His legacy as a leader, mentor, father, and community pillar will continue to shine through generations. His memory will remain forever in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.
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