Davis Payne Harris

Col. Davis Payne Harris, 90, peacefully passed away on Tuesday, April 8, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. Born on January 9, 1935, in Memphis, TN, to the late Jeff Davis and Estelle Harris, Davis lived a life dedicated to service and family.

A proud career military man, Davis served in the United States Army for 22 years, achieving the rank of Colonel. Throughout his distinguished military career, he earned numerous commendations, including the Bronze Star Medal, Meritorious Service Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal (Korea), Vietnam Service Medal with three Battle Stars, and the Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal.

After his retirement from the Army, Davis pursued his passion for mechanics, spending his time working on Mustangs, trucks, and tractors. However, his true joy was found outdoors, where he enjoyed tending to his cattle, fishing, and cultivating his garden. His vegetables, especially his melons, tomatoes, and prized pickled jalapeños, were well known among his family and friends—though they had to be “good” to receive a jar!

Davis leaves behind a legacy of service, hard work, and love for his family. He will be dearly missed by all who knew him.

He was preceded in death by his wife of 60 years, Florence Harris, and his parents, Jeff Davis and Estelle Harris.

Davis leaves behind his two children, Janet Harris-Smith (Hal), and Jeff Harris (LaDonna); two grandchildren, Nick Harris (Brea) and Lindsey Stearns (Jared), and two great-grandchildren, Rich Harris and Hope Harris.

In Lieu of flowers the family requests that memorial contributions be made to The National WWII Museum or Mississippi State University Foundation Agriculture Department.