Don Harris

Donald Ray Harris was born on August 10, 1946, to Raymond and Mabel Harris in Bolivar, TN. He attended school in Bolivar all 12 years, graduating in 1964. He was an outstanding athlete. He was a champion pitcher and catcher in Little League, quarterback on the Central High School football team, an outstanding diver and gymnast and worked as a lifeguard during high school. Don trusted Jesus as his Lord and Savior as a Junior in high school. He attended Union University and later enlisted in the Air Force, stationed at Carswell AFB in Ft. Worth, TX. He married Linda McKinnie on January 15, 1972 and they have been married for 54 years. He served in Thailand for 10 months and was discharged early to attend Memphis State University. He was a professional photographer and also worked with MLS homes listing, photographing homes for their magazine. He and Linda moved to Ovilla, TX, in 1986 where he served many years as Maintenance Director for Ovilla Road Baptist Church and Ovilla Christian School. He and Linda also worked faithfully in the church nursery endearing themselves to so many babies, children, and parents. He was also active in comedy drama skits bringing great delight to the whole church. He retired in 2011 and moved back to Tennessee. Don loved music, played the guitar, and enjoyed a wide variety of styles including classical, country, and especially Bluegrass (probably heard every song of Billy Strings and Doc Watson). Don loved to help people. Many different people have told us about how he helped with repairs and various projects without any fanfare and always refusing payment for his service. Although he often played the role of a doofus, he was extremely intelligent and knew something about almost any subject you could name. His family called him the “King of Information”. Due to earlier injuries his health began to decline significantly. He developed pulmonary fibrosis and struggled with a persistent cough for several years. His wife, Linda, and Don and Ann Bowen took great care of him to the end. He passed away quietly at home on July 24, 2026 with Linda present with him.

He is preceded in death by his parents Raymond and Mabel Harris. He is survived by his wife, Linda, his brothers Nick Harris (Carol) of Ovilla, TX, and Roger Harris of New Orleans, 5 nieces and nephews, Kim Harris, Jason Harris, Heather Treadaway (Brian), Daniel Bowen, and Julie Moorhead (Jason). His family, including his 10 grand nieces and nephews, his 18 great grandnieces and nephews and dozens of other children and teenagers call him “Uncle Donald”. He has brought laughter and joy to hundreds of people. He and his brother have entertained many people in churches, camps, and youth retreats, with Don always the funny one. He has been a loving husband, devoted friend, and diligent worker. He is undoubtedly the world’s best brother!