Donald Vernon Harris

Donald Vernon Harris, 77, of Murrysville, PA, passed away on Tuesday, February 23, 2021. He was born on June 28, 1943 in Pittsburgh, PA.

Donald was a graduate of Plum High School Class of 1961.  He worked various jobs throughout his lifetime and built his career as a pipe man for the New Kensington Water Authority Serving 35 years, before his retirement in 2005.

His faith in Christ has been a source of inspiration and guidance for him.  He joined Mt. Calvary Missionary Baptist Church in 1964 and after numerous years as a devoted member, he was ordained as a deacon and served his church dutifully in this role until his death.  Other positions he held included, church treasurer, member and director of the church choir, church trustee, Sunday school teacher, and Sunday school superintendent.  He represented the church at the Allegheny Union Baptist Association where he served in the past as treasurer and president.  Active in civil rights, he was a lifetime member of the NAACP.

Deacon Harris or Uncle Donnie as he was often called, allowed God’s word to guide him in his daily walk and talk.  His greatest passion was spending time with God’s word, pouring over the scriptures and allowing God’s word to dwell within him.  He loved encouraging others to apply God’s word to their daily situations.  Strangers he would meet he would greet with a hello and if asked how he was doing his response was, “blessed now that I’m talking to you.” Typically, a big smile would come over the stranger’s face and a warm exchange would take place.

His favorite scripture, Isaiah 40:31, “But they that wait upon the Lord, shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; they shall walk and not faint.” Anytime this scripture was read those around would expect “Hallelujah” to ring out from him.

He would let you know he was a Steeler’s fan.  Every year he would start the year with the belief that the Steelers were going to win the Superbowl.  Even when they lost, he would forgive them and renew his faith in their ability to win the next year.

He is survived by his wife of 14 years, Dr. Gwendolyn Dixon-Harris; son, S. Christopher Turner Harris of New Kensington; daughter Vonda (Sponce) Cade of Penn Hills; grandchildren, Tiaona Cade and Joshua Cade, both of Pittsburgh; sister Diane Carter of Arnold; brother Daniel (Vicki) Williams of Bettsville, MD; adopted brother, Hank (Arnay) Wilson of New Kensington; and a host of nieces, nephews, and cousin.

He is preceded in death by his mother, Dorothy Harris Williams; stepfather, Daniel Williams; sisters, Mary Frances Harris and Letha Williams.

Viewing will be from 2-4 and 6-8 pm on Sunday, February 28 at Ross G. Walker Funeral Home LTD., 217 Freeport Road, New Kensington. Due to Covid restrictions the funeral service and burial will be private. A memorial service will be scheduled for a later date. 

www.rossgwalker.com

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Donald Vernon Harris, please visit our floral store.