A funeral service for James Richard Harris, 88 of Newark will be held Tuesday April 13, 2021 at 10:00 a.m. in the sanctuary of Second Baptist Church, 19 W. National Drive with Pastor Ralph Gordon and Pastor Margaret Miller officiating. Burial will follow in Newark Memorial Gardens.

Mr. Harris passed away Thursday, April 8, 2021 at his residence with family at his side. He was born February 12, 1933 in Newark to James Arthur and Rose Anna (Whyde) Harris.

Richard was a lifetime member of the Second Baptist Church. He served on the Board of Deacons and active in Sunday school. He was also a member of Newark Lodge # 97 F&AM for over 50 years. He was a member of the Fleet Reserve Association. He was a 1951 graduate of Newark High School. His career in the U.S. Navy span from 1951 until 1971 included service during the Korean Conflict, Cuban Missile Crisis and Vietnam. He was a member of the Operating Engineers Local 18 from 1972 through 1994 operating heavy equipment for the Kokosing Construction Co.

He is survived by his children, James Michael (Cheryl) Harris of Heath, Kathy L. (Kirk) Conrow of New Smyrna Beach, FL, Pamela R. Lawson of Newark, Tammy A. (Thom) Elliott of Heath; four grandchildren, Patrick (Genevieve) Lawson, Peter Lawson, Jamy (Gary) Scott, Brandon (Erika) Jacks; six great-grandchildren, Max McCoy, Maddie McCoy, Miss Charlotte Lawson, Emma Rose Lawson, Mathew (Julia) Iden, Natalie Williamson; brother, Byron (Linda) Harris of Newark; several nieces, nephews and many dear friends.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife of 65 years, Mildred L. (Tate) Harris; sisters, Chloe Custard, Heather Edwards; brother, Earl Kelly Harris and brother at heart Oren Harris.

Calling hours will be observed Monday April 12, 2021 from 4 to 7 p.m. in the Newark Chapel of Vensil & Chute Funeral Home, 1850 West Main Street.

The family requests memorial contributions to the Second Baptist Church 19 W. National Drive, Newark, OH 43055 or Hospice of Central Ohio 2269 Cherry Valley Road SE, Newark, OH 43055.