It is with great sadness that the family of Michael Don Harbison announce his unexpected passing. Born on October 19, 1949, in Weslaco, Texas, Mike breathed his last on November 9, 2024, at the age of 75. He was recovering at the home of his nephew, Mark, in Atlanta, from the recent loss of his wife Debby.

He called New Boston his home, where as a long time teacher at Crestview Elementary School, he created a warm oasis of humor, wisdom, and an insatiable thirst for knowledge among his young charges. He shared his brilliance and wit with every soul that entered his classroom. His students would testify that he had a magical ability to sprinkle laughter amidst their daily lessons.

His incredible humor was rivaled only by his deep love for his family. Despite facing the heart wrenching and untimely loss of his daughters Jennifer and Sarah, he fostered the aspirations and dreams of his nieces and nephews, whom he saw as his own. To them and their many children, he was simply known as ‘Hoppy’, a term of endearment proudly worn by his Grandfather before him.

Mike is survived by a proud legacy of nephews. Michael Harbison of Riveria, Texas; Mark Harbison of Atlanta, Texas; Daniel Harbison of Blairsville, Georgia; Stewart “Ty” Beall of Spring, Texas; Timothy Beall of Harlingen, Texas; Stephen Harbison of Kingsville, Texas; and Simon Edwards of Whitby, Ontario, Canada. He also leaves behind his dear nieces. Mechelle Harbison of Ricardo, Texas; Holly Beall of Spring, Texas, and Kelly Peters of Vero Beach Florida. As well as their many children whom ‘Hoppy’ considered his own Grandchildren.

He is also survived by his siblings, Judy Beall of Spring, Texas; Wynona Harbison of Longview, Texas; Brian Harbison of Bishop, Texas; Fred McClain of Blue Ridge, Georgia; and Mark Harbison of Blairsville, Georgia and his Step-Mother, Jo Ellen Harbison of Bishop, Texas.

They, along with countless others, will remember him as a man whose laughter, wisdom, and love transcended the bounds of family and community. In remembrance of Mike, let us laugh a little longer, love a little harder, and cherish the moments that truly matter—echoing the very essence of his bright and vibrant life.

Services will be held at Bates Rolf Funeral Home, New Boston on Friday, 6 December. A visitation will be held at 10 a.m., where family and friends can share fond memories of Mike. A Celebration of Life will begin at 11 a.m. and will be officiated by family friend Bishop Dan Edwards.

Online memorials may be made at www.batesrolffuneralhome. com