John H. Harris

February 7, 1944 — January 3, 2026

John H. Harris, 81 of Taylorville, passed away on Saturday, January 3, 2026, at Taylorville Memorial Hospital E.R. He was born on February 7, 1944, in Stanford, Kentucky, the son of Lloyd and Ella Mae (Simpson) Harris. John was a skilled welder, machinist, and crane operator. He was exceptionally talented with his hands and could figure out any mechanical system. He worked for Ramsey Machine Shop for many years before owning the business. He was active in many organizations including a member of the Taylorville Christian Church, lifetime member of the NRA, V.F.W., American Legion, Moose Lodge, and an officer and member of the Taylorville Rifle and Pistol Club. John was an avid outdoorsman and horseman. He spent many years taking annual hunting trips to Canada. For over 40 years he hunted in Southern Illinois with his sons, brothers, son-in-law, grandsons and granddaughter. John and his family recently completed a life-long dream of building a family hunting cabin in Southern Illinois.

He is survived by his children: Bridgitte Guertler (Steve) of Villa Park, Tracie Stephens (Pat) of Auburn, Molly Miller (GJ) of Edwardsville, Johnny Harris Jr. of Taylorville, and Mike Harris of Kincaid; grandchildren: Laura Guertler, Matthew Guertler (Malorie), Allison Guertler (fiancÈ Matthew Seefeldt), Heather Rothert, Kelly McClelland (Scott), Sydney Christus (Nick), Ryley Miller, Jonathan Harris, Jared Harris, Nick Harris, Alek Harris (Hannah) and Hunter Harris; 16 great grandchildren; siblings: Rosetta Cochran (Paul), Julie Lowis, Jimmy Harris, and Cecil Harris; previous wives: Irene Rickman and Bonny Harris-Buesking; and many nieces, nephews, and cousins. He was preceded in death by his parents; siblings: Jane Pankey, Eva Martin, Debbie Harris Meyers, Kirby Harris, Eddie Harris, and Ralph Harris.

A funeral service for John will be held at 12:00 p.m. on Thursday, January 8, 2026, at McClure Funeral Home in Taylorville with Pastor Chad Foster officiating. Visitation will be held from 10:00 a.m. until 12:00 p.m. on Thursday at the funeral home and burial will be in the Pleasant View Cemetery in Assumption. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Moose Lodge #1516 in Taylorville. McClure Funeral Home and Cremation Services in Taylorville is assisting the family with arrangements.