Donald Ray Harris

Donald (Don) Ray Harris, 81, passed peacefully into the presence of his Lord and Savior on November 6, 2025.

Don was born on December 12, 1943, in Whitesboro, Texas and was an accomplished athlete and student. He graduated from Whitesboro High School where he was a star football player, team captain and named “Mr. Whitesboro” his senior year. He also earned state recognition in track before breaking his leg running hurdles.

Don attended North Texas State University (now UNT) where he played football his freshman year. While at North Texas he met the love of his life, Fran Corbin, and they married in September 1965. Don graduated with a degree in Business & Finance.

After graduation Don served as a First Lt in the US Army in Vietnam. He was a highly decorated veteran earning the Silver Star and the Bronze Star among other honors. After the military he worked in finance and enjoyed a long career as a Real Estate Trust Officer with Bank of America and was a certified auctioneer.

A devoted believer in Jesus Christ, Don was a member of Tate Springs Baptist Church for over 45 years where he served in many volunteer roles. His faith and his family were at the center of his life.

Don and Fran had many wonderful memories traveling, camping, and hiking. He was known for his kindness, honesty, generosity, and joyful spirit. He was fun-loving, easy-going, positive, encouraging and a loyal friend.

He loved photography, country music (especially George Strait), golf, hiking, camping, exploring, chuckwagon cooking, watching baseball and football, and most especially enjoyed attending the activities and events of his three local grandsons and cherished visits and time spent with his grandson in Iowa.

He is survived by his wife Fran Harris; son Jeff (Jennifer) Harris; daughter Jennifer (Tommy) Graham; grandsons Cody, Carson, and Caden Graham and Eli Harris; and many nieces, nephews, and great-nieces and nephews.

A Celebration of Life service will be held Thursday, November 13, at 11:00 a.m. at Tate Springs Baptist Church in Arlington, Texas. Don will be laid to rest at the National Cemetery in a private family service.

In lieu of flowers, the family would be honored by donations to the Tate Springs Baptist Church building fund in his memory.