James “Bubba” Leslie Harkness, 70, of Orange, Texas, passed away on February 6, 2025, at his home in Orange.
Funeral services will be held at 10:00 a.m., Wednesday, February 12, 2025, at Claybar Funeral Home in Orange. Officiating will be Reverend Seth Williams. Burial will follow at Hillcrest Memorial Gardens in Orange.
Visitation will be from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., Tuesday, February 11, 2025, at Claybar Funeral Home in Orange.
Born in Orange, Texas, on June 25, 1954, he was the son of James “Otis” Harkness and Venice Glaze Harkness. Bubba was a cherished member of his community, known not only for his remarkable skills in his profession as a senior Pipe Designer and a member of the Local 195 pipefitters, but also for his kind-hearted nature and dedication to his family. As a craftsman, Bubba exhibited unmatched attention to detail, which earned him respect and admiration from his colleagues. His professional life was a testament to hard work and commitment, characteristics that extended beyond his career into every area of his life. Bubba was also a passionate mechanic, spending countless hours tinkering and perfecting hot rods, showcasing his deep love for automobiles. His interests extended to the great outdoors, where he found solace and joy in nature and fishing. Among his fondest memories were the times spent going down to the river to the talking place with his grandson, who lovingly referred to him as "Pop Pop." Bubba loved being involved with his children, whether it was coaching their games growing up, family vacations, or just spending time together. These moments encapsulated the love and connection that defined his role as a wonderful husband and the absolute best father. In addition to his outdoor pursuits, Bubba valued the simple pleasures in life, such as sharing morning coffee with his buddies at the local donut shop. These gatherings were not only about the coffee but also about camaraderie and the bonds he forged over the years. Bubba never met a stranger and enjoyed conversing with everyone he met. James "Bubba" Leslie Harkness leaves behind a legacy built on love, skill, and unforgettable memories, he will be deeply missed by all who knew him.
He is preceded in death by his parents, Otis and Venice Harkness.
He is survived by his loving wife of 39 years, June Harkness; his daughter, Kalyn Harkness, of Dallas; his son, Kadin Harkness, of Vidor; his grandchild, Aiden Harkness; his brother, Larry Harkness and wife, Sharon, of Buna; his nieces and nephews, Angela Webb, Jessica Harkness, Corey Stanley and wife, Stephanie, Zane Williams and wife, Naomi, Seth Williams and wife, Jacie, Leisha Johnson and husband, Nicholas, and Amber Stanley and partner, Logan Sampson; his best friend, Joey Harvey; and numerous other great nieces and nephews, family members, and friends.
Serving as pallbearers will be Kadin Harkness, Stanley, Zane Williams, Ashton Webb, Nicholas Johnson, and Jimmy Williams. Honorary pallbearers will be Larry Harkness, Aiden Harkness, and Joey Harvey.