Philip Harris

March 30, 1924 - August 15, 2017

Philip Harris of Orinda, CA. passed away with grace and in peace on August 15, 2017.

Philip was born in San Francisco on the 30th of March 1924. He had three brothers, all of whom pre-deceased him. Just like each of his brothers, he was tall, smart, handsome and athletic his entire life. He was a standout high school and college basketball player. Alas, his education was interrupted by the start of World War II. In early 1942 he and his identical twin brother, Ted, joined the Army and shipped off together to New Guinea where they spent the rest of the war together in the same Signal Corps unit.

Upon returning home, Philip married the late Paula Cooper, and began his long and stellar career in the movie theater industry, rising from manager to successful SF bay area movie theater owner.

Philip loved all sports, especially tennis. He traveled the world to watch major tennis tournaments including the Olympics. Philip was well known in the SF East Bay Jewish community. He was deeply committed to the successful funding and development of the The East Bay Home for Jewish Living that eventually was built and is thriving today as The Reutlinger Community located in Danville,CA. He served as an early principal fundraiser, its Board President, and in later years as a Trustee. He believed that giving back was a privilege and a responsibility, and he lived those words, preferring to make his own contributions quietly or anonymously.

Philip left behind a large devoted and loving family. In 1969 he married Rachel (Simon) who remained the love of his life for 48 magical years. Their marriage created a blended family of 6 children: Dr. Robert Simon of Mission Viejo, CA, Philip Harris III of Whitefish Montana, Cindy Simon Harris of Mountain View, CA, Randall Harris of Oakland, CA, Janet Harris of Del Mar, CA, James Simon of Walnut Creek, CA and their respective spouses: Jo Anne Simon, Donna Harris, Larry Harris, Belinda Harris, Michael Newman, and Marla Simon.

Philip had 10 beloved grandchildren: Jacob Simon, Jon Simon, Scott Harris, Matthew Harris, David Harris, Coco (Harris) Morante, Arielle (Simon) Parkos, Zachary Simon, Tyler Harris Gregory & Sari Harris Gregory and 4 greatgrandchildren: Anita Simon, Elliot Simon, Maya Aminova Harris, and Miles Aminova Harris.

Internment services will be private. Donations can be made to The Reutlinger Community in Danville Ca. or Hospice Of The East Bay.