David Newton Harrison was born on July 14, 1934, to Nellie Beckmeyer Harrison West and William Newton Harrison in Houston, TX.  He went to be with our heavenly father on September 14, 2023.

As a child, David lived in Houston with his family and attended Minnetex Community Church.  Later, they moved to McAllen, Texas where, sadly, his father and uncle died in an accident when he was only thirteen years old.  Nellie, David and his younger brother, Paul, moved back to Houston and attended Beracha Church.  Nellie married Felton West who had three children of his own; Felton West Jr., Linelle Glasgow, and James West.

David met his beautiful bride, Frances, at Minnetex Church at the age of four.  They were married on July 25, 1953, and were great partners throughout their lives, ministering to others and parenting their four children. David attended Dallas Bible College and graduated in 1954. While there, he studied Theology. He also attended Sam Houston University where he majored in Criminology and Psychology.

David served as pastor for Sandy Point Bible Church.  He also had various other occupations where he ministered to young people. These positions included Harris County juvenile probation officer, director of a home for troubled youth and Big Brothers of America.  He worked at Camp Peniel from a very young age.  David would greet new campers on the buses as they rolled in dressed as an Indian on horseback.  He loved Camp Peniel and all the wonderful people who made it so great, especially Chief.  He later became a District Sales Manager for a metal building company and continued in that role until his retirement.

David and Frances loved to travel, especially to Colorado, and were the best tour guides.  You always got a trip to Willow City to see the bluebonnets.  He was a lover of all animals.  You never saw him without his dogs or farm animals.  He leaves behind his beloved dachshund, Hilda.

Over the years, David and Frances lived in Houston and in Minden, Louisiana.   In the early 1980's, they built their dream home in Fredericksburg, TX where they spent many evenings hosting family and friends while all got to enjoy a beautiful sunset in the Texas Hill Country. David and Frances were inseparable throughout their 67 years of married life.   When Frances went into the nursing home, David visited her every day and was always there for her.  While we are saddened by his passing, we are joyful that he and Frances are together again in heaven.

David was an active member of Faith Baptist Church.  He taught Adult Bible Classes and was a Deacon.

Surviving David are his children: daughter Sharon Karsten of Houston, TX; daughter Susan Silva and husband, John, of Friendswood, TX; son Paul Harrison and wife, Cindy, of Fredericksburg, TX; and daughter Sandy Watson and husband, Don Watson of Manvel, TX.  They had 9 grandchildren and 14 great-grandchildren. Also surviving David is his brother, Dr. Paul Harrison and wife, Sallie of Sidney, Illinois; and many nieces and nephews and cousins.

David is preceded in death by his parents, his wife, Joana Frances Harrison, son-in-law James Karsten and granddaughter, Amy Karsten.

To say he will be missed is an understatement.  David was the best storyteller, father, husband, grandfather, great grandfather, Christian and all-around great guy.  His legacy will live on within us.

Graveside service will be held at Greenwood Cemetery at 2:00 pm on Saturday, September 23, 2023 with Pastor Jamey Day officiating.  Reception to follow at Faith Baptist Church.

Memorials can be made to Faith Baptist Church of Fredericksburg or Camp Peniel, 397 Peniel Path, Marble Falls, TX  78654