San Joaquin Valley Agriculture Icon John Harris Dies

San Joaquin Valley agriculture icon John Harris dies

Well-known Valley farmer John Harris dies at 81

A Valley farmer and one of Central California's most notable Republican donors has died.

John C. Harris, prominent Fresno Co farmer, businessman and breeder, dies at 81

Tributes continue pouring in following the death of a prominent local businessman and horse breeder, John C. Harris, who passed away at the age of 81.Under his

Statement from NTRA President and CEO Tom Rooney on the Passing of John C. Harris

WASHINGTON, D.C. (July 3, 2025) – “The influence of John Harris on Thoroughbred breeding and racing for more than a half a century cannot be overstated.  No one understood and appreciated the intersection of agriculture and Thoroughbred breeding and racing more than John, who was a farmer at heart. His presence was felt from [...]

RIP John Harris: Fresno County Rancher, Racehorse Breeder Was a Visionary Leader Who Leaves a 'Profound Legacy'

John C. Harris, who cast a large shadow across the worlds of agriculture, ranching, horseracing, politics, and philanthropy, has died. He was 81. His passing sparked a bouquet of tributes Thursday about the deep impact that Mr. Harris had, and not just in the Central Valley where his eponymous Harris Ranch was a favorite stop for many Interstate 5 travelers eager for a meal of the company’s grass-fed beef. Many described him as a visionary whose…

Veteran California breeder John C. Harris dies at age 81

Veteran California Thoroughbred breeder John C. Harris, whose farm produced prominent horses such as Hall of Famer Tiznow, died at age 81, his family announced Thursday.As a breeder, Harris Farms produced numerous Eclipse Award winners, California champions and divisional leaders, including Breeders’ Cup winners Tiznow and Thor’s Echo as well as Soviet Problem, who placed by a nose in the Breeders' Cup Sprint. Harris held positions with the Cali…