MSgt Donald Thomas Harrison, Jr. (US Marine Corps, retired), 60, of Watha passed peacefully from his earthly life on Monday, February 18, 2013 at New Hanover Regional Medical Center with family at his bedside.

He was born July 30, 1952 in Templeton, California, son of Donald Thomas Harrison.

Tom proudly served his country honorably in the US Marine Corps for over 22 years, serving during the Vietnam Era and the Kuwait Liberation.

Tom married Nancy, the love of his life, and they have spent 26 happy years together. Their children, Roger Taylor (Penny), Russell Taylor (Teresa) and Catherine Sherman (Ralph) all of Asheboro, their grandchildren, Kristina Skinner (Nathan), Amy Henry, Ashley Taylor, April Taylor (Fiance`, Tyler Garner) and Dalton Taylor; and great grandsons, Ryan and Caleb added so much joy to his life. He is also survived by his sister, Erin Harrison of Texas and many extended family and friends.

Tom was a joy to know and be around as he always made you laugh and be happy. He loved his family beyond compare and was a wonderful husband, daddy, granddaddy, brother and friend. He never met a stranger in all of his travels where ever he went. When adversity came, rather than being defeated, he learned from it, imparting to others the wisdom gained while developing into the great man he became.

There will be a gathering of family and friends at 1:00 p.m. on Thursday, February 21, at his and Nancy's home, 4142 Shiloh Road, Watha. Military honors will be accorded by US Marine Corps Honor Guard. Following Tom's wishes there will be no other services.

Shared memories and condolences may be sent to the family at by selecting "Memory Wall" above.

There will be a gathering of family and friends at 1:00 p.m. on Thursday, February 21, at his and Nancy's home, 4142 Shiloh Road, Watha. Military honors will be accorded by US Marine Corps Honor Guard.