James J. Harris of West Chester

James J. Harris, 88, of West Chester, Pa. passed away on Friday, March 23, 2018.

Born January 27, 1930 in Chicago, Illinois, Jim was the son of the late Samuel Albert and Mary Marguerite (nee Strohminger) Harris. He was the beloved husband of the late Marilyn (nee Canon) Harris; loving father of Elizabeth Helmich (Robert) of West Chester and Nancy Marvel (Paul) of Malvern; and devoted grandfather of Katherine Helmich, Julia Helmich and Kristen Marvel; also survived by his twin brother Samuel Harris and younger brother Paul Harris. Jim was predeceased by his sisters, Dorothy Paulick and Mary Stout, and his brother John Harris.

Jim graduated from Angola High School in Indiana then attended Miami University in Ohio where he received both his bachelor’s and master’s degrees in chemistry. After serving for two years at the United States Army Chemical Center, he received his Ph.D. in chemistry from the University of Florida. Jim began his career at Koppers Company in Pittsburgh, later transferring to West Chester with the Atlantic Richfield Company, where he received an award for Outstanding Technical Achievement for his work in catalysis. He later worked for Chem Services in West Chester. He is responsible for 20 U.S. chemical patents.

Having spent much of his youth on a farm, Jim had a lifelong love of animals and always enjoyed growing corn and tomatoes. He also enjoyed mechanical challenges, including working on cars and home projects. He had a passion for photography and was rarely seen at any gathering without a camera around his neck ready to capture every wonderful moment. His family is very grateful for his many beautiful photographs that they will always cherish. He loved to travel, enjoying numerous road trips throughout the U.S. and tours of Europe. He was particularly inspired by the mountainous regions. Throughout his life, Jim was active in the Presbyterian Church, having served as both a deacon and an elder.

Above all, Jim valued spending time with his friends and family. He adored his granddaughters, spending every possible moment with them, and forever impacting their lives. He will be greatly missed.

Relatives and friends are invited to his Visitation 7-9 PM Monday, April 2, 2018 at The Donohue Funeral Home, 1627 West Chester Pike, West Chester, Pa. 19382, 610-431-9000 and 1011 AM Tuesday at Westminster Presbyterian Church, 10 E. Pleasant Grove Road, West Chester, Pa. 19382 followed by his Funeral Service 11 AM. Interment at a later date at Oak Park Cemetery, Newcastle, Pa.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions to the American Heart Association, 1617 John F. Kennedy Blvd., Suite 700, Philadelphia, PA 19103 or to the Chester County SPCA, 1212 Phoenixville Pike, West Chester, PA 19380 would be appreciated.

Online condolences www.donohuefuneralhome.com.