James B. Harrington, 81, a longtime resident of South Monterey County and lifelong member of the San Ardo community, passed away peacefully on June 27, 2026, while in the care of Eden Valley Care Center in Soledad, California. In a poignant coincidence, it was the same care center where his father, Ralph Harrington, spent his final days in 1993.

James was born on September 1, 1944, in Vallejo, California, to Ralph and Virgie Harrington. He spent most of his life in San Ardo, where he built lasting friendships and became known as a dependable man with a generous heart, a quick wit, with the ability to spin quite the yarn. As a young man, James worked in the San Ardo oil fields before becoming an independent truck driver, hauling produce throughout the local area. Later, he found his true calling as a barber, serving the King City community for more than 20 years at The Razor's Edge. He treasured the friendships he made in the barber chair and took pride in serving generations of local families.

James embraced life with enthusiasm. In their younger years, he enjoyed water skiing with his wife, Pam and snow skiing with his cousin, Kenny making memories together on California's lakes and slopes. He was an accomplished team roper, competing in local arenas and roping events throughout the state. Motorcycling became another lifelong passion. Over nearly three decades, he logged countless miles on the open road, including two memorable trips to Sturgis. Even after health challenges ended his riding days, his love for motorcycles and the freedom of the open road never faded. Music also brought Jim great joy. He was a proud member of the Pancho Rico Gut Bucket Band, sharing laughter, friendship, and good music with those around him.

Dedicated to his community, James served on the San Ardo Cemetery Board, was a lifelong member of the San Bernardo Grange, and founded the Hillbilly Poker Run motorcycle events, which became a successful fundraiser supporting the Grange for many years. His commitment to these organizations reflected his deep love for the people and community of San Ardo.

Above all, Jim's greatest love was his family. He is survived by his devoted wife, Pam; his son, Justin; his daughter, Shannon; and his five beloved grandchildren, Zac, Cheyenne, Taryn, Summer, and Logan. He was preceded in death by his parents, Ralph and Virgie Harrington, and his three brothers, Harold, Dwain, and Lindle.

Jim will be remembered for his kindness, quiet strength, and the friendships he cultivated throughout his life. Whether cutting hair, riding his motorcycle, playing music, lending a helping hand, or simply sharing stories with friends, he made those around him feel welcome and valued. His legacy lives on in the lives he touched and in the community he loved so dearly. His was a life well lived, rich in family, friendship, music, service to his community, and the freedom of the open road. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all who knew and loved him.

1 The Harrington family would like to express their heartfelt gratitude to the physicians, nurses, caregivers, and staff at Eden Valley Care Center for the exceptional compassion, kindness, and dignity they showed James during his time in their care. Their unwavering support, genuine concern, and thoughtful attention brought comfort not only to Jim but also to our entire family. We are deeply grateful for the love and respect with which he was treated, and we can never thank them enough for the extraordinary care they provided.

A Graveside Service will be held, 10:00 a.m., Saturday, July 11, 2026 in the San Ardo Cemetery, North Rico Rd., San Ardo, Calif. A Celebration of life will follow in the San Bernardo Grange #506 Building, Main St., San Ardo, 93450.

For more information, please contact Eddington Funeral Services, King City, (831) 385-5400.