[Congressional Record Volume 171, Number 119 (Thursday, July 10, 2025)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E658]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                       REMEMBERING JOHN C. HARRIS

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. VINCE FONG

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, July 10, 2025

  Mr. FONG. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and legacy of 
John C. Harris, a visionary agriculturalist, respected horseman, 
successful businessman, and generous philanthropist, who passed away on 
July 2, 2025, at the age of 81.
  A lifelong resident of Fresno County, Mr. Harris was born into a 
farming family and embodied the spirit of the San Joaquin Valley. After 
graduating from the University of California, Davis, in 1965 and 
serving his country as a U.S. Army officer, Mr. Harris returned to the 
Central Valley to carry on and expand his family's agricultural legacy. 
As the driving force behind Harris Farms, he transformed the business 
into one of California's most prominent agricultural operations. Under 
his leadership, Harris Ranch Beef Company became a nationally respected 
name in food production, known for quality and innovation.
  Mr. Harris was equally influential in the world of thoroughbred horse 
racing. Over five decades, he bred and raced champions, including 
California Chrome, the winner of the 2014 Kentucky Derby and the 2014 
Preakness Stakes. As chairman of the California Horse Racing Board and 
a board member of the Jockey Club and the Breeders' Cup, he was a 
pillar of integrity and advocacy in the sport. His green-and-white 
silks became a fixture in California's winner's circles, and his 
leadership helped shape the industry for future generations.
  Beyond his impact as a businessman and sportsman, John Harris was a 
servant of his community. He supported educational institutions 
throughout the Central Valley such as Fresno State, UC Davis, Cal Poly 
San Luis Obispo, and Saint Agnes Medical Center. His philanthropic work 
spanned education, healthcare, and vocational training, including 
supporting a program at Pleasant Valley State Prison that pairs inmates 
with horses.
  Over the years, Mr. Harris was honored with numerous accolades, 
including the Livestock Man of the Year Award, the Leon S. Peters 
Award, and induction into the Fresno Athletic Hall of Fame. However, he 
was known not only for his accomplishments, but for his humility and 
his steadfast dedication to his home. He believed deeply in investing 
in people, mentoring young agricultural leaders, and uplifting those 
around him through quiet acts of kindness. He is survived by his 
beloved wife, Cookie.
  Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to join me in remembering John C. 
Harris--a pioneer whose legacy will continue to shape California 
agriculture, equine sport, and civic life for generations to come.

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