It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Donald W. Harris, affectionately known as Donny, who left us on June 16, 2025, at the age of 47. Born on April 19, 1978, in Virginia Beach, VA, Donny’s life was as vibrant as his laughter, leaving a lasting impact on all who had the joy of knowing him.

Donny spent most of his life in his beloved hometown of Virginia Beach, where he graduated from Bayside High School. From a young age, he discovered his passion for cooking, eventually becoming a talented chef. Nothing delighted Donny more than firing up the grill to cook a perfect steak and sharing his culinary creations with friends and family.

Beyond his culinary skills, Donny had an infectious love for music and was a natural comedian. His sense of humor was legendary, bringing smiles and bellyaches from laughter to everyone around him. He was a master at the game of cornhole, famously beating his sister, Tara every single time.

A man with a giant heart, Donny loved deeply and never met a stranger. He was always there for others, putting aside his own worries to lend a helping hand or a listening ear. A die-hard sports fan, Donny cheered passionately for all things Boston—Patriots, Red Sox, Bruins, and Celtics. Yet, nothing made him prouder than supporting his two sons, Killian James Harris and Donald Warren Harris “DJ,” in their various hobbies and interests. He never missed a baseball game of Killian’s and was DT’s biggest supporter in everything he pursued.

Donny is survived by his devoted sons, Killian and DJ; his loving mother, Helen Harris; his cherished sister, Tara Parnham; his partner of almost 18 years, Sara Cromwell; his caring grandmother, Paulette Gowan Harris; his grandparents, Warren and Nancy Harris; and his nephews, Phillip Parnham IV and Landyn Parnham. He is preceded in death by his father, Dana V. Harris, and his grandfather.

A celebration of Donny’s life will be held on Sunday, July 20, 2025, at the Diamond Springs Civic League from 2-7 pm. Donny’s spirit will live on in the laughter and love he inspired in those fortunate enough to have called him family and friends.