Joseph Jeffrey “Jeff” Harris Esq., 67, of Morgantown, passed away unexpectedly Sunday morning, Feb. 7, 2021, at his residence.
He was born Sept. 29, 1953, in Baltimore and was a son of the late Joseph F. and Katherine E. (Stewart) Harris.
He attended Charles Town High School in Charles Town. Jeff was a graduate of Shepherd College and the West Virginia University College of Law. After graduating, he practiced law with Professor Frank Cleckley for several years before starting his own law office in Morgantown and practiced there until his death. For a brief period in 2018, he also worked at the Office of the Federal Public Defender in Clarksburg.
He specialized in federal criminal defense and civil personal injury cases. He was a favorite among his colleagues and judges alike due to his honesty, wit and his presentation style, which was, at times, comedic.
Jeff was a funny individual, including times when it was unintentional. He enjoyed spending time sitting outside reading with his favorite feline companion, Tabby, who passed away last year. He was an avid history buff and enjoyed horror novels, collecting electronics, craft shows and watching sports.
He leaves behind his brother, Richard (Kristy) Harris; nephews, Ian (Lynn) Harris and Colin Harris; nieces, Breanne Harris and Shannon (Aubrey) Barr; ex sister-in-law, Karen (Yontz) Harris; several great-nieces and -nephews; and many close friends.
A gathering of immediate family and close friends will be held at Smith Funeral & Cremation Care, 108 Holland Avenue, Westover/Morgantown from 3-5 p.m. Monday, Feb. 15.
Guests at the funeral home must wear a face covering, practice social distancing and limit your visit with the family to 15 minutes or less.
In keeping with Jeff’s love of his cats, and in lieu of flowers, please consider contributing to a local no-kill animal rescue or other feline related charity.
Condolences:
www.smithfcc.com
