James Harris Sallis

James "Jim" "Sal" Harris Sallis passed away peacefully and was welcomed into the Kingdom of God on August 12, 2026. James was born in Sallis, Mississippi, to Rufus and Ethel (Wright) Sallis on April 12, 1948. His journey eventually led him to Rockford, Illinois, where, from an early age, his extraordinary athletic ability began to set him apart. On the basketball court, he became known as one of Illinois' last backboard breakers, leaving behind a legacy that extended far beyond the game itself. During his time at Rockford West High School, James scored an impressive 1,227 career points and earned distinction in basketball, football, and track. His accomplishments etched his name permanently into the history of Rockford West, where his records and achievements continue to tell the story of an exceptional athlete. But James was known for far more than what he could do on a court or field. With his unmistakable presence and larger-than-life personality, he became affectionately known as "Big Miss." It was a name that followed him wherever life took him, and there were few places he could go where someone didn't recognize that name, that face, or the spirit behind both. He attended Ellsworth Community College, where he continued to pursue his passion for both football and basketball, before going on to the University of Wisconsin-Stout to further his basketball career. It was at Stout that he met his wife of 50 years, Johnice Britts. Together, they eventually made Brooklyn Park, Minnesota, their home, where they raised their two children, Jordan and Jayda. James worked for many years at NSP in Minneapolis and eventually retired from the University of Minnesota. Throughout his life, he found countless ways to serve others. He never met a stranger who didn't soon become a friend. His endless grace, generosity, kindness, and joyful spirit left an enduring impression on countless lives. James was known for his love of family, fishing and Big Sandy Lake in McGregor, fixing things, working on cars, watching sports, and being a good conversationalist, but an even better listener. He was a beloved husband, devoted father, proud grandfather, the best brother, uncle, coach, mentor, encourager, friend, and neighbor, and a pillar of stability and strength to his large extended family and community. James leaves to lovingly cherish his memory his beloved wife, Johnice Sallis; adored children, Jordan (Amanda) and Jayda Sallis; treasured grandchildren, Kyra, Maraea, Adalyn, Kion, Langston, Zayden, and Zaylee; brothers, John "Fruit," Danny (Robin), and Michael Sallis; sister, Pearlia Anderson; and deeply loved in-laws, Joyce Sallis, Louise Britts, Agnes Pomroy, Cathy (Phil) Britts-Axen, Therese Salber, Maurice Britts Jr. (Betty), Lorraine (Jim) Coan, Mary Britts, and Dannielle (Carl) Britts-Osterlund. He also leaves a host of nieces and nephews and cherished lifelong friends, Steve Swanson and Bruce Haywood. He was predeceased by his parents; brothers, Charles, Joe, Arthur Lee Sallis, and Eugene Stingley; sister, Lillie Mims; sisters-in-law, Costella and Jewell Sallis; and brothers-in-law, Bob Pomroy and Ron Salber. Special thanks to Methodist Hospital, Dr. Sonia Zechmann, and the Park Nicollet Hospice team for their compassionate care. James leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, generosity, faith, and family that will continue through all those whose lives he touched. A memorial service will be held on Friday, August 28th at Washburn-McReavy Glen Haven Chapel (5125 West Broadway Ave., Crystal, MN) at 11AM with visitation one hour prior. Celebration of Life to follow at the New Brighton Eagles Club (563 Old Hwy 8 NW, New Brighton, MN).

James Harris Sallis

April 12, 1948 - August 12, 2026

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