James Anthony "Tony" Harris

James Anthony "Tony" Harris, a beloved son, brother, uncle, and cherished friend, passed away on February 16, 2025, in Jackson, Mississippi. Born on March 4, 1974, in Amory, Mississippi, Tony was the son of Gloria Lou (Knight) Harris and the late James Allen Harris. He is remembered for his unwavering dedication to his family, his intellectual pursuits, and his remarkable professional journey.

Tony graduated from Smithville High School in 1992, where he made a name for himself as a talented football kicker. His sports talents continued at Itawamba Community College, where he cherished the memories of his time on the field. His commitment to education led him to earn a Banking and Finance Master's Degree, along with an Associate Degree in Oil and Gas, reflecting his diverse interests and accomplishments.

Throughout his career, Tony held several noteworthy positions, beginning with his early days in high school at Jitney Jungle grocery store in Amory. His professional life was marked by significant role in banking which began with a teller position while in college at North Texas University in Denton, TX. From there, he moved to the Denton County Appraisal District. Upon completion of his bachelor’s degree, he took a position with Citibank. That position was interrupted by deployments to both Iraq and Afghanistan. After returning from Afghanistan, his educational pursuits kicked in again, and he obtained an associate’s degree in oil and gas. He spent several years in the Chevron oil and gas fields in west Texas. When sand, wind and tumbleweeds or oil and gas smells got too much for him, he again turned to furthering his education and received a Master’s in banking and finance from A & M Central Texas. In typical Tony fashion, he then landed a job with FDIC in Jackson, Mississippi, before taking a position as a Corporate Vice President of Operations for Bank Plus in Jackson.

In addition to his professional endeavors, Tony served his country with honor in the Army National Guard in Texas, where he was deployed to Iraq and Afghanistan. His service exemplified his caring nature and willingness to support others, qualities that endeared him to many.

Outside of his career and military service, Tony enjoyed a variety of hobbies and interests, including playing soccer, wrestling, and riding motorcycles. He was known for his intellectual curiosity, caring demeanor, and organizational skills, which made him a reliable friend and confidant.

Tony leaves behind a loving family, including his mother, Gloria Lou (Knight) Harris; sister, Shilo Harris; brother, Michael Harris; niece, Anika Harris; as well as his aunts, Sandy Meadows (Scott) and Mary Moore (David), and great uncle, Dan Chism (Peggy). He will be deeply missed by his close friends Brian Hughes, Tanya Dean Jones, James Garrett, Daniel Kimbrough, and a host of others who shared countless memories with him.

A Celebration of Life with Military Honors will be held on February 20, 2025, at 2:00 PM, with visitation beginning at 5:00 PM on February 19, 2025, at E. E. Pickle Funeral Home in Amory, Mississippi. Tony's legacy of kindness, perseverance, and intellect will continue to inspire all who knew him.

Memorials and Donations can be made to the VFW Post 6809 in Ridgeland, Mississippi.

Memories and Condolences may be shared with his family at EEPickleFuneralHome.com.