Gerald “Jerry” James Harris

Gerald “Jerry” James Harris, 92, of Rigby, Idaho, passed away on June 26, 2024, at his home of natural causes surrounded by his family.

Jerry was born August 25, 1931, at Harlowton, Montana, a son of Joseph and Elizabeth Pirrie Harris. He lost his father at the age of 3. He was the oldest of 3 boys. He grew up in Hedgesville, Montana, attending schools in Hedgesville and Harlowton. He joined the Marine Corps in 1952 and was on the front lines in Korea until 1954 as a supply sergeant.

Jerry married Darlene Klingler March 4, 1955, in Newdale, Idaho. Their daughter Judy was born in Rupert, Idaho. They moved to Rigby where they settled and their son Danny was born.

He started his own construction company building numerous homes for many families. After a snowmobile injury in 1970, his career took a change, and he opened a cabinet shop called Kitchen Corner. Then Jerry and his son Danny built J&D Storage. He retired in 1992.

After retiring they spent many winters in Bermuda Palms, California, and Mesa, Arizona. They enjoyed traveling and making many new friends. Jerry loved the outdoors, especially hunting and fishing. They enjoyed their summers for many years at their cabin in Island Park with many family get togethers.

Jerry is survived by his loving wife, Darlene, son Danny (Irintha) Harris of Rigby, daughter Judy Kaye Patton of Caldwell, Idaho, sister-in-law Donna Harris of Washington, 6 grandchildren, and 14 great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents, brothers Ed Harris and Bob Harris and grandson Joshua Nalder.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, July 1, 2024, at the Eckersell Memorial Chapel. The family will visit with friends prior to the service from 9:00 – 10:45 a.m. at the funeral home. Burial will follow at the Fielding Memorial Park Cemetery under the direction of Eckersell Funeral Home. Condolences may be sent to the family online at www.eckersellfuneralhome.com