In deep respect of Jim Harrison: known by many at Westcliff Rugby Football Club, former pupils and staff of Westcliff High School for Boys, and Old Westcliffian Lodge. Jimmy passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by loving friends and family on Monday 22nd July 2024, aged 91 years.
At this time, no words can adequately convey how deeply he will be missed by his immediate family, who loved him so dearly. They are now left with simply the best memories, combined with the utmost respect.
I was at WHSB from 1970-78, and my mum was best friends with his wife Jenny before I joined the school. I can still remember the awful phone call from Jimmy to my mum the morning after she died. Jim looked after me and we were partners at doubles squash - and I still have the cup from our tournament victory! I bumped into him loads of times over the years, and we always enjoyed a chat. He was an absolute legend.
I’ve just found out about Jimmy’s passing. Jim taught me from 1983 to 1990. He took me on my first ever skiing trip and showed me the light of the beautiful game of rugby. He was an amazing and inspirational individual - 35 years on I still remember such great times. Between us Jim you were ‘knockout’!!!
RIP Jim - legend!!
Amanda and I will always have fond memories of Jim and were so glad to be able to be present at his send off.
I had the pleasure and privilege of being taught and coached by Jimmy in the 1970s. He was an innovative rugby coach, an excellent teacher, and a superb role model for all. I visited him when he was in his early 80s; he had not lost his incredible zest for life and we spent a magical two hours reminiscing the era we shared at Westcliff High School. He helped to shape the lives of many, and I was fortunate to be one of those. RIP Jim.
Bless you Jimmy, what an amazing life you had, you touched so many peoples hearts. You were the kindess, happiest man.
You will never be forgotten
Love Annie xx
A great guy never to be forgotten
Stuart & Chrissie (Cherub & Popey)
Fond memories of Skiing and Rugby.A pleasure to have known you Jim.
Jim lived around the corner from me for many years Both my sons went to WHS and when I relayed his sad passing both of them used a phrase I have already seen in earlier messages “he was a legend”. I went skiing one year with Jim and we drove down to Ricky house in St Foy it was great fun until I broke my arm. I had to fly home and Jim and Ricky drove my Saab home for me. The car was never quite the same after that!! RIP Jim
Jim was my uncle’s Form Master in the 1950’s and was Head of Games when I was at Westcliff. I was, shall we say, not a natural sportsman, but Jim never gave me a hard time over it and recognised that my abilities lay elsewhere. He was never anything but helpful and friendly to me, and I will remember him as the epitome of good humour and gentlemanly behaviour.
Senior Colts 1958
My two sons were lucky enough to be taught by Jim at WHSB and have nothing but fond memories of him. Their words he was both unique and a legend.
Jim was my form master when I joined WHSB in 1956 & taught me maths for 5 years. A true inspiration for a wide-eyed cockney boy who felt out of his depth in posh Westcliff. Thanks, Jim. I owe you so much!
Absolute legend…
Jimmy Harrison was a legend and all-round great guy, very sorry to hear this. He once played a whole game of squash whilst carrying me on his shoulders!
Jimmy taught me at Westcliff, what a legend he was too. I'll never forget hiking around Skye with him one year, clinging to ridges in howling gales. What a wonderful teacher and all round character he was.
My condolences to all his family.
Senior Colts 1958
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