Rex Donald Harris

Rex Donald Harris, age 91, of Mansfield, Texas, passed away peacefully at home on March 29, 2026.

He was born on July 16, 1934, in Waxahachie, Texas, to Elsie Creigh Harris and Lois Wilson Harris. Family stories recall humble beginnings, where the attending doctor was paid with milk, butter, a little money, and hay for his horse—marking the start of a life rooted in simplicity, hard work, and strong values.

Rex’s parents were sharecroppers in Venus, Texas, before moving to Mansfield when he was four years old. He grew up in Mansfield and remained a lifelong resident. He graduated from Mansfield High School with the Class of 1952.

On February 10, 1956, Rex married the love of his life, Linda Lou Barton Harris. Together they built a life centered on family, faithfulness, and shared experiences.

Rex proudly served in the United States Army from 1958 to 1962, spending much of his time stationed in Germany, where he served as a driver to “The BRASS”.

Following his military service, Rex built a career in accounting, first with Texas Pacific Coal & Oil Company and later with TXU, where he dedicated many years of service.

Rex enjoyed a good game of golf and was an active member of the Jaycees in his younger years. He and Linda shared a passion for travel and entertainment, frequently enjoying live music and variety shows. Their favorite destinations included The Grapevine Opry, the music halls of Branson, Missouri, and shows in Las Vegas.

Above all, Rex was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather. He is lovingly remembered for never missing a single one of his son Donald Dean’s football and baseball games. His loud, unmistakable whistle could be heard across the field—rising above the crowd and the band. That whistle became legendary, not only at games but throughout the neighborhood, where it served as Donald and Norman's call home in the evenings. All the neighborhood children knew “THE WHISTLE.”

Rex treasured his family deeply. In his later years, he embraced technology to stay close, often Face Timing with his granddaughters and great-grandchildren on his iPad—something that brought him great joy.

He is survived by his sons, Donald Dean Harris and wife Lynette Z. Harris, and Norman Don Harris; his granddaughters, Tye Coapland and Dr. Holiday Harris; and his great-grandchildren, Bexley Coapland, Canaan Coapland, and Tenley Bee Coapland. He is also survived by many beloved nieces and nephews.

Rex was preceded in death by his parents; his beloved wife, Linda Harris; his brother, Kenneth Harris; and his sisters, Sara Rose Barrow, Eloise Wynn, and Sharon Epting.

Rex Donald Harris will be remembered for his unwavering dedication to his family, his strong work ethic, his joyful spirit, and the unforgettable sound of a whistle that meant “come home.”