Donny Harris, firm in his faith in God, devoted husband, father, and grandfather, a man of high moral character, a take-charge big personality, a leader and a heart of gold, peacefully passed away at home in Montgomery, Texas in the company of his wife and sons on March 4, 2025 at the age of 72. Donny was born in Niagara Falls, New York on March 20, 1952 to Denver V. and Eleanor G. Harris.
Donny grew up in Aberdeen, Mississippi, actively involved in his church, community, and sports. Graduating from Aberdeen High School, he went on to The Ohio State University earning a Bachelor of Science Degree in Business Administration. While at the University, Donny played football, coached by the legendary college coach, Woody Hayes. “Go Bucks” He was as big a fan as ever was.
Donny’s early career included banking, teaching History, Math, and Social Studies at Shivers Jr. High and coaching football at Aberdeen High School. In 1980, he began a 35 year profession in the gas and oil industry with Hughes Christensen, serving in a variety of places and positions including sales, management, and training. He retired in 2015.
In 1983 Donny met his wife, JoAnne, while working and living in Traverse City, Michigan. They married and were blessed with two sons, Chris and Drew, the lights of his life. Chris married Rachel (favorite daughter-in-law) and enriched his life and family with the birth of 3 grandsons and 1 granddaughter, making Donny a very grateful and proud man.
Donny was preceded in death by his parents, Denver and Eleanor Harris.
Donny is survived by his wife of 42 years, JoAnne, son Christopher and wife Rachel, son Drew, 4 grandchildren Emitt, Landon, Nolan, and Chandler, sister Barbara Ann Rowe, nephew Scott Rowe and wife Lindsey and their daughter McKenna, niece Carrie Beth Shelton and husband Brian and their children Ellie and Will, special aunt Patty Shawd along with numerous cousins, friends, and neighbors and their families. Ella, Donny’s “Best Friend” Bichon brought him so much joy and comfort.
In lieu of flowers, please send memorial donations to the Jimmy V. Foundation (www.V.org), First United Methodist Church, Aberdeen, MS or The American Diabetes Association (diabetes.org).
A memorial service for Don will be held Friday, April 11, 2025 at 11:00 AM at April Sound Church, 67-1/2 April Wind Dr S., Montgomery, Texas 77356.
