Donald Lee Harrison was born on December 21, 1953, in Jasper, Texas, to Mae Helen Smith Simpson and Alton Harrison. He accepted Christ at an early age and united with Mt. Olive Missionary Baptist Church under the leadership of Reverend John D. Hardin. Don loved worshipping with his family and remained actively involved in church life during his youth.

A proud 1972 graduate of Jasper High School, Don earned an athletic scholarship to attend Hardin-Simmons University in Abilene, Texas. After completing his bachelor's degree in business finance, he was drafted by the Phillies, where he played professional baseball until an injury shortened his tenure in the league.

Don later relocated to Houston, Texas, where he lived with his grandmother, Hattie Smith, and began a career in finance. His first job was as an Assistant Vice President for InterFirst Bank. It was during this time that he met the love of his life, Dorothy Mae Johnson. They were married on February 10, 1976, and enjoyed 45 wonderful years together.

Don and his family united with Mt. Ararat Baptist Church in Acres Home under the pastoral leadership of Reverend Ameal Jones. Don served in the Brotherhood and Finance Department of the church. Don and Dorothy were blessed with two children, Decole Harrison and Dwantell Harrison. Together, they shared a complete family with Don's oldest son, Christopher DiWayne McCray, the son of Diann McCray.

A hardworking and devoted family man, Don held multiple jobs throughout his life to provide for those he loved. He was a true entrepreneur. In the 1990s, he launched his own fleet of 18-wheelers and later became the owner of a successful bail bonds business in Houston, Texas. Don's passion for cars led him to work at several dealerships across the Greater Houston Area. He had a particular love for Corvettes and proudly joined a local Corvette club—often seen cruising the city streets with a big smile on his face.

Don's love for music, especially the Blues, led him to become the owner of the Infinity Social Club in Houston's Historical Fifth Ward and retired after 20 years of committed service. He also deeply valued family and was a driving force behind family reunions. One of his final wishes was for the Smith family to come together and share Memorial Day in Newton, Texas.

Don was full of life and energy. He cherished visits to Jasper, reconnecting with lifelong friends and classmates. He never met a stranger and could strike up a conversation with anyone. Talking was truly a part of his lifestyle.

A die-hard Pittsburgh Steelers fan, Don took great pride in attending Super Bowls whenever he could. He also loved trail rides. Above all else, Don deeply adored his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. His joy, infectious laughter, and warm spirit will be dearly missed by all who had the pleasure of knowing him.

Don was preceded in death by his mother, Mae Helen Smith Harrison Simpson; father, Alton Harrison; daddy, James Simpson; mother-in-law, Doretha Johnson; father-in-law, Walton Johnson; niece, Tracey Blackwell; brothers-in-law, George Campbell, Leland "Jack" Jackson, and Robert Porter; and a host of numerous aunts, uncles, and cousins.

He leaves to cherish his memories: his devoted and faithful wife, Dorothy Mae Johnson Harrison; sons, Christopher DiWayne McCray, Sr., and Dwantell Harrison; daughter, Decole Harrison; sisters, Debra Ann Blackwell, Diann Simpson (Thomas), Etta Simpson Campbell, and Helena Simpson Savage (Osbie); aunts, Juanita S. Barrett (Waymon) and Rosetta P. Smith; uncle, Paul Darks; sisters-in-law, Lou Ella Stevenson (Leroy), Mary Thomas (Robert), Delia Porter, Roseale Jackson, Lou Giles (Derrick), and Theresa Howland (Calvin); brothers-in-law, Walter Johnson, Luke Johnson (Lena), Herbert Johnson (Paula), Albert Johnson (Jackie), and Richard Johnson; grandchildren, Xavier McCray, Christopher McCray II (Akilah), DeShae Harrison, Zaelon Hudson, Kole Green, and Joel Green; great-grandchildren, Zalo Hudson, Violet McCray, Kia McCray, and Juliet Karney; godson, P. L. Lindley, Jr.; special friends, Charles Cooper, Gerald Washington, Tom Thomas, William Tredwil, and Coopwood Williams; and other extended family and a host of beloved friends and classmates.

Don "Cowboy" Harrison was a happy, fun-loving man who lived life out loud and with purpose. His legacy of love, laughter, and connection will live on in all of us.