David Gale Harris

David Gale Harris

March 29, 1958 – September 22, 2026

Today, we gather to remember and celebrate the life of David Gale Harris — a beloved father, grandfather, brother, husband, friend, coach, and mentor whose life touched more people than he may ever have realized.

David passed away on September 22, 2026, in his hometown of Bakersfield, California, at the age of 68. Though his time here on earth has come to an end, the memories he created, the lessons he shared, and the love he gave will remain with those who knew him.

David was born on March 29, 1958, in Bakersfield, to Dorothy Mae Ewing and Louis Alonzo Harris. He was the firstborn of identical twin boys, arriving alongside his brother, Dana Dale Harris.

Growing up in Bakersfield, David developed a love for athletics that would become a defining part of his life. He was a gifted competitor, particularly in football and wrestling, and earned recognition as an All-American nose tackle. In 1977, he proudly graduated from West High School, where he represented the West High Vikings.

His athletic accomplishments earned him a full sports scholarship to California Polytechnic State University in San Luis Obispo, where he studied engineering. Although he did not complete his degree, life took him in another direction — one that included falling in love with Debbie Ann May, the woman who would become his wife and the mother of his children.

David followed his heart all the way to Flint, Michigan, where Debbie was from. On May 18, 1985, they married at Crossroads Village, beginning a life together that would shape the years to come.

Together, David and Debbie welcomed three children: Lonnie in 1987, Jacquelyn in 1992, and Gabrielle in 1996. Their family made memories through the everyday moments of raising children, the adventures they shared, and the many changes life brought their way.

David worked for General Telephone and Electronics, better known as GTE, before the family relocated to Las Vegas, Nevada, in 1997. There, he continued his telecommunications career as an electrician with Sprint. As a member of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers, he took pride in his profession and served as a union steward, advocating for his fellow workers. He believed in hard work, standing up for others, and speaking up for what he felt was right.

Those who knew David knew he was never one to shy away from expressing himself, especially when something mattered to him. And few things mattered to him quite like family and sports.

Whether it was softball, baseball, football, or wrestling, David enjoyed being involved in his children's activities. Sometimes he was cheering from the sidelines; other times he was coaching, teaching, or lending a helping hand. His passion for athletics extended far beyond his own family.

During his years in Las Vegas, David coached and mentored young athletes at Cimarron-Memorial High School and Arbor View High School. He helped guide teams to state championships, but his contributions were never measured by trophies alone. They lived in the confidence he helped build and the lessons in discipline, determination, and perseverance that extended beyond the wrestling mat or football field.

In September 2014, David experienced the heartbreaking loss of his beloved wife, Debbie. After nearly three decades of marriage, her passing marked a profound change in his life. In the years that followed, David returned to Bakersfield, where his own story had begun.

Back home, his love for wrestling never faded. He continued coaching at Stockdale High School and his alma mater, West High School, sharing his experience and enthusiasm with another generation of wrestlers until retiring from coaching approximately three years ago. There was something especially meaningful about returning to the school where his athletic journey began — this time to encourage young people following in his footsteps.

For David, coaching was more than teaching a sport. It was an opportunity to make a difference in someone's life. Through life's changing seasons, he remained a father to Lonnie, Jacquelyn, and Gabrielle, and a grandfather to Liam David Harris, who carries his grandfather's name as his middle name.

Faith was also an important part of David's story. Raised Catholic, he carried the traditions of his childhood with him. Later, through his relationship with Debbie, he converted to her Christian faith. Even after her passing, he continued to observe some of the Catholic traditions that had remained familiar to him. His faith, shaped by his upbringing, marriage, and life experiences, was personal and meaningful.

Today, his family finds comfort in the love, grace, and forgiveness of God and in the promise of everlasting life through Jesus Christ. As John 3:16 reminds us:

“For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.”

— John 3:16 (NKJV)

David is survived by his children, Lonnie Harris; Jacquelyn Gutierrez and her husband, Alex; and Gabrielle Harris; his grandson, Liam David Harris; his sisters, Amber Stacy and Shirley Biscar; and extended family, friends, former colleagues, and athletes whose lives he touched.

When we look back on David's 68 years, we see a life with many chapters: a Bakersfield boy who became a talented athlete; a young man whose abilities opened the door to college; a husband who followed his heart across the country; a hardworking man who stood up for others; a father who shared his love of sports with his children; a coach who invested in the next generation; a grandfather, a brother, and a man of faith.

Beyond the milestones and accomplishments, David's legacy lives in the people he leaves behind. It lives in memories shared around family tables, stories that will be told for years to come, athletes who still remember their coach, and the children and grandson who will carry a part of him throughout their lives.

Though we wish there had been more time, we are grateful for the years we were given, the memories we hold, and the love that will always connect us. Today, we do not simply say goodbye to David Gale Harris. We celebrate the life he lived, the people he loved, and the mark he left on this world. His story continues through every life he touched.

Forever loved. Forever remembered. Until we meet again.

Together in life. Together again in rest.