John C. Harris died Wednesday at age 81. The family farmer is being remembered for his leadership in agriculture and legacy of philanthropy. Photo via Fresno State

Fresno area businessman John C. Harris died Wednesday at age 81. The farmer, horse breeder, restaurateur and philanthropist leaves behind a legacy of leadership and generosity, according to local leaders offering their condolences.

Harris was born into a farming family, graduating from University of California, Davis in 1965 and later serving as a U.S. Army officer. As owner of Harris Farms since 1981, he oversaw various entities, including the Harris Ranch Resort in Coalinga, Harris Farms thoroughbred horse division, Harris Ranch Beef Holding Co. and Harris Fresh.

Horse racing was a passion since his early teens, with Harris mounting an unsuccessful effort in recent weeks to revive racing at Northern California fairs. served on the California Horse Racing Board, including as chairman for several years. He served five terms as president of the California Thoroughbred Breeders Association and is a member and past steward of the Jockey Club and the Breeder’s Cup board of directors.

The Harris Farms thoroughbred division has raised several California-bred champions, including California Chrome, winner of the 2014 Kentucky Derby and Preakness Stakes.

He is a 2017 inductee into the Fresno Athletic Hall of Fame for his racing career/

Harris has been the recipient of numerous awards including Livestock Man of the Year Award (1988), UC Davis’ Award of Distinction (1992) and Fresno Chamber of Commerce Agriculturist of the Year (2014). His service with community organizations included Saint Agnes Medical Center, the California Cattlemen’s Association and the Western Growers Association.

He was the 2024 recipient of the Fresno Chamber’s prestigious Leon S. Peters Award.

Fresno Mayor Jerry Dyer offered a remembrance on social media Thursday.

“John was a true pioneer in the Central Valley, his vision and leadership helped make Harris Ranch a household name, known far beyond our region. More than that, he was a kind, generous man who cared deeply about his community,” Dyer wrote.

Rep. Jim Costa said Thursday that Harris was a pioneer in the development and production of healthy food. Costa said he had known Harris for more than 40 years.

“John Harris was a respected leader in California and American agriculture,” Costa wrote. “In the San Joaquin Valley, people recognized that John Harris made a difference in numerous ways. A proud graduate of UC Davis, he always understood the importance of education and gave back generously whether through his support of Fresno State’s Maddy Institute or mentoring the next generation of agricultural leaders.”

His philanthropic support touched his alma maters, including Fresno State in many areas, such as the Jordan College of Agricultural Sciences and Technology, Craig School of Business, Bulldog Foundation, Fresno State Library, Kremen School of Education and Human Development and the President’s Circle of Excellence.

“Beyond his professional achievements, John had an unwavering passion for helping people and supporting his local community. Whether through philanthropy, mentorship, or quiet acts of kindness, he consistently uplifted others and believed in giving back to the region and industry that shaped him. His humility, generosity, and integrity were hallmarks of his life,” according to an announcement at harrisfarms.com.

Harris was recently married in June to his wife, Cookie Harris, “with whom he shared deep joy, admiration and companionship,” according to the Harris Farms announcement.

He is survived by Cookie, extended family, friends and colleagues. A private burial ceremony will be held. A public celebration of life is being scheduled and will be announced soon.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Jack A. Harris Memorial Scholarship Fund, continuing John’s commitment to supporting the next generation of agricultural leaders.

“John C. Harris leaves behind a profound legacy—one defined by hard work, vision, and a lifelong dedication to community, service, and the values he held dear,” the Harris Farms statement concludes.