Jerome K. Harris Jr (June 26, 1931 - November 4, 2013) was an American businessman who originated the idea for a for Hemisfair '68.

Jerome K. Harris Jr.
Born(1931-06-26)June 26, 1931
San Antonio, Bexar County, Texas, USA
DiedNovember 4, 2013(2013-11-04) (aged 82)
Occupation(s)Businessman, Civic Leader
Known forFounder of Harris Shop of Poppagallo, Co-founder of Cody-Harris Photography
Spouses
  • Susan Elizabeth Passmore (first wife)
  • Susan W. Harris (second wife)
Children
  • Rome Harris (Jerome K. Harris III)
  • Nancy Nash
  • Laurie Harris
  • Marjorie Morgan
Parents
Relatives
  • Marjory Jean Harris (sister)

Early life

edit

Jerome K. Harris Jr. was born on June 26, 1931, in San Antonio, Texas, to Jerome K. Harris Sr., originator of the idea for Hemisfair '68,[1] and Gertrude Louise Harris. His sister was Marjory Jean Harris. He overcame significant early challenges, being the sole survivor among four children at Alamo Heights High School who contracted polio at the time.[2]

Career and civic engagement

edit

Harris began his entrepreneurial journey with the Harris Shop of Poppagallo, later co-founding Cody-Harris Photography. He was a notable civic leader, holding positions such as president of the San Antonio Rotary, San Antonio Fiesta Commission,[3] vice president of the American Heart Association, and was actively involved in many other civic organizations. He also played a pivotal role in promoting HemisFair '68.[4]

Legacy

edit

Harris died on November 4, 2013, at 82. His enduring impact is reflected in the civic projects he supported and his family's continued dedication to social entrepreneurship and community service.[5]

References

edit
  1. ^ "Interview with Jerome K. Harris, 1979". digital.utsa.edu. Retrieved 2023-12-15.
  2. ^ "Our History". www.eduforward.com. Retrieved 2023-12-13.
  3. ^ "2021 Fiesta San Antonio by Traveling Blender - Issuu". issuu.com. 2021-05-20. Retrieved 2023-12-13.
  4. ^ Gish, Stephanie (2018-07-10). "Outstanding Alumnus of the Year Awards". TMI Newsroom. Retrieved 2023-12-13.
  5. ^ "Jerome Harris Obituary (2013) - San Antonio, TX - San Antonio Express-News". Legacy.com. Retrieved 2023-12-13.