Harriet Smith James

Harriet James ObituaryObituary published on Legacy.com by VanHorn-Eagle Funeral Home - Hillsdale on Mar. 17, 2026.Harriet Smith James, age 96, of Hillsdale, Michigan, formerly of Clearwater, Florida, passed away peacefully on Monday, March 16, 2026. She was born on April 27, 1929, in Jackson, to Edison and Virginia (Andrews) Smith.Harriet graduated from Jackson High School then went on to Michigan State University and later Lansing Community College where she earned her nursing degree. Harriet worked as a nurse for more than 20 years, serving communities in Whitehall, Michigan and Clearwater, Florida. She was active in her church, a Girl Scout Leader and active as an alumnae in her sorority Kappa, Kappa, GammaShe is survived by her children, Joanna James Wiseley (Scott Wiseley) of Hillsdale, William G. James, Jr. (Holly) of Toledo, Ohio, and Robert Thomas James of Clearwater, Florida; nine grandchildren; six great-grandchildren, and many other loving family members.Harriet was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 63 years, William George James, Sr. Together they shared a life centered on devotion to family, enduring love, and lasting partnership. She was also preceded by a grandson, Cameron Austin James.A private family graveside service is planned at Oak Grove Cemetery in Hillsdale, Michigan. Arrangements are entrusted to the VanHorn-Eagle Funeral Home in Hillsdale.Memorial contributions can be made to the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation in memory of Harriet James or Hospice of Hillsdale County.To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.