Jim R. Harriff

Jim Harriff of Manlius passed away on December 14th, after a determined 2½-year battle with cancer, maintaining a positive attitude and a love of life every moment of that journey. The son of Rev. Robert and Jane Harriff of Rochester, New York, Jim graduated from Brighton High School and Roberts Wesleyan University, where he remained an active supporter and alumnus, and earned his Master of Divinity from Asbury Seminary in Kentucky. Before his professional career, Jim’s experience with Cross Counter Ministries in Newark, New Jersey had a deeply profound effect on his life. Jim served as pastor for several churches, most recently the First Baptist Church of New Hartford, which hosted a celebration of his 30 years of ordained ministry this fall. He served as Treasurer for the American Baptist Churches of New York State for 14 years and shared his love of music as a member of The Barnstormers and The Master’s Touch Chorale, singing at the White House on three occasions. Jim and his wife, Rev. Suzi Harriff, shared their music ministry at the Syracuse Nationals, coffeehouses, and many churches, especially treasuring their many years at Otter Lake Community Church. They traveled regularly to Rwanda, where they were privileged to partner with several ministry organizations. For 45 years, Jim was also a Realtor specializing in residential and bank-owned properties with William-Alan Real Estate, then RE/MAX, where he was inducted into the Hall of Fame, and later with Jim Harriff Realty. He served as a Director and President of the Greater Syracuse Association of Realtors and was recognized as GSAR Realtor of the Year. Jim also founded the Central New York chapter of the Council of Residential Specialists (CRS), serving as its first President and later being named CRS of the Year. Unwilling to fully retire, Jim continued to consult on church closures and property sales, and completed his drone pilot certification, providing photos to clients, churches, family, and friends. He was predeceased by his parents and youngest brother, Mark. Remembering him with love are his wife Suzi, son Michael, beloved cat Murakoze, siblings Jack (Carole) Harriff, Martha (Dale) Mack, David (Gaila) Harriff, and numerous wonderful nieces, nephews, cousins, and other family members, along with many good friends, colleagues, and partners in ministry. We are deeply grateful to the stellar team at Upstate Cancer Center, especially Dr. Rahul Seth, whose compassionate care was a true gift, and who all inspired Jim to donate his body to Upstate Medical University for research. Family and friends are invited to join in sharing and remembrance on Friday, February 6th from 4-7 pm at B.L. Bush & Sons Funeral Home, 10 Genesee Street in Camillus, and to a Service of Celebration on Saturday, February 7th at 11 am at Mission Hope Community, 23 Genesee Street in Camillus. Jim’s ashes will be distributed in places that he loved, including the Adirondacks and Cape Cod. To continue Jim’s legacy of ministry and service, we invite contributions to the Blessing Fund at Mission Hope Community, 23 Genesee St., Camillus, NY 13031. Please share memories and sign his guestbook at www.BLBUSH.com

Jim R. Harriff

November 19, 1946 - December 14, 2025