James Michael "Mike" Harkness' Obituary
James Michael “Mike” Harkness
March 9, 1953 – February 23, 2025
James Michael "Mike" Harkness, age 71, of Tampa, Florida, passed away peacefully at home on February 23, 2025, surrounded by his loving family after a courageous battle with cancer. Born in Guntersville, Alabama, on March 9, 1953, Mike was the son of Harold Harkness and Virginia Neal and was preceded in death by his parents and stepfather, Harold Neal.
Mike is survived by his beloved wife of 48 years, Marina Harkness; his sons, James Harkness Jr. (wife Marni) and Chris Harkness; grandchildren, Kaylie, Jimmy, and Chelsie Harkness; siblings, Regina Lankford, Jack Neal, and Debra O’Neil; as well as nieces and nephews Dusty, Nico, Kelsey, Kyle, April, Amber, and Denise. He was preceded in death by his brother Nathan Neal, nephews, Donald and David, and niece Amanda.
Mike proudly served in the United States Air Force for four years before embarking on a distinguished career in transportation. He was a dedicated member of the Teamsters for 31 years, working for local companies and contributing to the movie industry, including films such as Gone Fishing andGreat Expectations. His work ethic, humor, and generosity left an impression on everyone he met.
A man of many passions, Mike was an avid sports fan, especially devoted to the Alabama Crimson Tide, Tampa Bay Rays, Tampa Bay Buccaneers, and Tampa Bay Lightning. He also loved traveling the world with Marina and cherished their many adventures together. Music was another great love of his, having sung in the band TAME and played drums in his younger years. His love for classic rock, particularly ZZ Top and Pink Floyd, was well-known to all who knew him.
Mike was a generous soul who often donated food to those in need and volunteered his time, notably volunteering for his sons' soccer teams, including one memorable trip to England. His infectious laugh, sense of humor, and kind heart will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing him. His legacy lives on in the countless memories he created, the beautiful family he nurtured, and the love he shared so freely.
A celebration of Mike’s life will be held on March 8th, 2025, from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM at Boza & Roel Funeral Home, 4730 N Armenia Ave, Tampa, FL 33603.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations to Moffitt Cancer Center (supporting Jennifer Stevens Small Cell Cancer Research), a place that provided Mike with excellent care during his illness.
https://fundraise.moffitt.org/give/563959/#!/donation/checkout
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