Harris
WAYCROSS — Joseph Donald “Donnie” Harris died, Monday, April 21, 2025, at his residence.
He was born on September 1, 1941, in Jacksonville, Fla. Harris was preceded in death by his parents, John L. and Louise Hilton Harris; two brothers, Robert Russell Harris and John Lee Harris Jr; one sister-inlaw, Peggy Mobley Harris; one brother-in- law, Lenox M. Morris (Mickey); one niece, Ginger Louise Harris; one great niece, Bristol Kay Harris, and one great nephew, Samuel Jackson Harris.
He is survived by his two sons, Ricky Harris (friend, Melanie) and Randall Harris (Yolanda); three granddaughters, Harlee Harris, Kristy Knutson (Davin), and Kalee Corbitt (Avery); three great grandchildren, Walker Harris, Opie Knutson, and Amelia Corbitt; two sisters, Judy Morris and Sheryl Ellis (Jeff); three brothers, Ronnie Harris (Gayle), Greg Harris (Trisha), and Doug Harris (Betsy); as well as numerous other nieces and nephews.
Harris’s earliest memories were vague, but include living in a government apartment in Brunswick, Ga., and a tenant house owned by Mrs. Mary Lightsey. From these humble beginnings, he then remembered moving into the farmhouse on January 1, 1950. This would be the place he called “home” growing up. He attended school in Appling County where he was a 1958 graduate.
After graduating high school, Harris then began working in construction. This job would lead to many others that would eventually give him the opportunity to own his own company, J. Donald Harris Construction. Throughout the span of his career as a master carpenter, he designed and built many prominent businesses and buildings in Waycross and surrounding areas. He spent 40 years as a member and Sunday School teacher at Woodard Chapel Methodist Church, and was a current member at Piney Grove Free Will Baptist Church where he continued to be an Adult Sunday school teacher.
Following the teachings and example of Christ was always at the forefront of his life and the Bible was his guide through it all. After his many accomplishments in his profession, Harris would be able to retire and fully enjoy all of the things he loved most — fishing, hunting, travelling, cooking and hosting parties — but most importantly, spending time with those he loved.
These retirement years were enjoyed to their fullest until health issues arose causing him to be limited in things he could do and places he could go. This decline in health eventually led to him passing peacefully in his home.
A funeral service was held Wednesday, April 23, at Piney Grove Freewill Baptist Church in Appling County. A burial will follow in the church cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Hospice Satilla, 808 Evergreen Way, Waycross, 31501.
Sympathy may be expressed by signing online at www.milesodumfuneralhome. com.
Miles-Odum Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.
