Roll Call Tribute

John Young Harbison 

October 14, 1950 - February 6, 2024 

Mr. John Harbison, 73, of Bivins, TX, passed away peacefully on February 6, 2024.

John was born on October 14, 1950 to J Y and Margarie Harbison in Olton, TX. After John graduated from Clarksville in 1968, he studied Agricultural Science, achieving a Master’s degree in Education at Texas A&M University.

In 1982 he met and married the love of his life for over 30 years, Frances. He is survived by their two sons, John and Jacob. Frances preceded him, passing in 2013.

Mr. Harbison retired from Education after 30 years of service, spending ten years as the Agriculture Program Director at Paris Junior College and then over 20 years as a composite High School science teacher, specializing in a broad mix of physics, chemistry, biology, and anatomy. He once had a fellow teacher describe him as a “Renaissance Man” since he had at various times been a bank manager, mechanic, farmer, rancher, logger, etc.

He also served as a local church elder for 37 years. He touched the lives of many students, church members, and, of course, his family. He will be missed. He never met a stranger.

Services will be held at Hanner Funeral Service in Atlanta, TX on February 11, 2024 at 2pm.