This website made possible with support from Hilliard Lyons

2002 Business Hall of Fame Laureate

James H. "Buck" Harless

Born October 14, 1919 in Taplin, West Virginia James H. “Buck” Harless is one of the most noted philanthropist in the state of West Virginia.

From the humble beginnings of Gilbert Lumber Company, “Buck” Harless built a multi-million dollar corporation, the internationally acclaimed International Industries, Inc., of which he chairman of the board. During this century Buck Harless has used his resources and influence to make the entire state, particularly his hometown of Gilbert, a better place to live.

His quick wit at business has opened numerous doors of opportunity for business partners and associates. With natural resource development in coal and hardwoods his major focus, Buck Harless has brought economic development wherever he has ventured.

While a late arrival to Huntington caused him to miss a football scholarship and ensuring college years at Marshall, Buck Harless has never set aside the importance of a college education. He has spent tireless energy helping others gain what he had to pass. He has served as past chairman of Marshall University Board of Advisors; member of the Marshall University Foundation Board; member and past chair of the West ?Virginia University Foundation Board; member of the West Virginia Board of Regents.

His business leadership for the state has been acknowledged in many sectors including his directorship and past chairmanship of the West Virginia Mining & Reclamation Association, member of the West Virginia Roundtable, and numerous other economic development groups.

Buck has served his faith as an elder and past moderator of the Presbytery of Greenbrier; elder of Gilbert Presbyterian Church; director of the Greenbrier Mission Development Fund, and director and state chairman of the Fellowship of Christian Athletes.

Mr. Harless was named “West Virginian of the Year – 1983” by the Charleston Gazette, “Coal Man of the Year – 1976” by the West Virginia Mining and Reclamation Association, and received the City of Hope “Spirit of Life” Award in 2984. Buck was inducted into the Marshall University Business Hall of Fame in April 1994 and received the John Marshall Medal of Civic Responsibility in October 1994. The West Virginia Bar Association named him “Public Citizen of the Year”.