Key Takeaways
- John Harris, a prominent figure in California agriculture, passed away at age 81 on July 3.
- Harris was a multifaceted leader, recognized for his contributions to farming, ranching, and horse breeding.
- His legacy includes the acclaimed Harris Ranch Beef and a commitment to agricultural education through the Jack A. Harris Memorial Scholarship Fund.
Influential Leader in California Agriculture Passes Away
John Harris, one of California’s most recognizable agricultural leaders, died on July 3 at the age of 81. Renowned as a farmer, cattle rancher, horse breeder, and philanthropist, Harris left an indelible mark on the agricultural landscape of California and the broader Western produce industry. According to Dave Puglia, President and CEO of Western Growers, Harris was a pivotal figure in advancing California agriculture and championing rural communities.
Harris’s achievements did not go unnoticed. He received the Award of Honor from Western Growers in 2022, underscoring his significant influence. Puglia emphasized that Harris was admired not only among agricultural peers but also by political leaders throughout California. His expansive vision shaped numerous enterprises, including Harris Farms and the iconic Harris Ranch Inn & Restaurant, both symbols of his dedication to high-quality agricultural production.
U.S. Representative Jim Costa described Harris as a “pioneer” in healthy food production, particularly for the Harris Ranch Beef brand, which is among the most respected in the nation. With a career spanning over four decades, Costa regarded Harris as a personal friend and acknowledged that his legacy would endure.
John Harris was born on July 14, 1943, and grew up on his family’s farm in Fresno County, established in 1937. He graduated from the University of California, Davis with a degree in agricultural production and served in the U.S. Army before taking over as the sole shareholder and CEO of Harris Farms at the age of 38.
Over the years, Harris’s farming operations diversified to include crops like cotton, grain, lettuce, tomatoes, and various nuts and fruits. He gained national recognition in 2014 when California Chrome, a horse bred at Harris Farms, won both the Kentucky Derby and the Preakness Stakes.
Beyond farming, Harris was actively involved in organizations that shaped the agricultural and horse racing industries. He served multiple terms as president of the California Thoroughbred Breeders Association and chaired the California Horse Racing Board on three occasions. His contributions earned him multiple accolades, including the Livestock Man of the Year award in 1988 and the Agriculturalist of the Year award in 2014.
Harris was awarded an honorary Doctor of Science degree from California State University, Fresno in 2019, reflecting his commitment to agricultural leadership.
He is survived by his wife, Cookie, and a public celebration of his life is in the planning stages. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Jack A. Harris Memorial Scholarship Fund, in line with Harris’s mission to foster the next generation of leaders in agriculture.
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