Donnie "Dirtbag" Harris

Donald Lee "Donnie" Harris, also known as "Dirtbag", 83 of Beardstown, died Friday, November 7, 2025 at his home.

He is survived by his son Todd Harris (wife Melinda) of Beardstown; three grandchildren Austin, Kyle, and Beck Harris; a step-granddaughter; a step-great-granddaughter; two sisters Ruth Ann Vincent of Ashland and Suzie Collins (husband Kenny) of rural Rushville; two brothers Gary Spoon (wife Kathy) of Camden and Bob Spoon (wife Debbie) of Meredosia; and numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his father Richard Lee Harris, his mother Ruth Christine Launer Spoon, and his step-father Howard Spoon.

Donnie graduated from Beardstown High School with the Class of 1960 and honorably served in the United States Marine Corps. He worked several years on the railroad before spending 20 years with Oscar Mayer in Beardstown, continuing an additional year through the transition to Cargill. He later joined the Illinois Department of Corrections in Mt. Sterling, where he worked until his retirement in 2007.

Donnie loved fishing anywhere he could cast a line and spent countless hours tending his garden, taking particular pride in the tomatoes he grew and shared with others.

Per Donnie's wishes, cremation rites have been accorded. A private family burial will be held at St. John's Lutheran Cemetery. Colwell Memorial Home in Beardstown is assisting the family with arrangements.

Memorials have been suggested to Cass/Schuyler Area Hospice. Condolences may be left online at www.colwellmemorialhome.com or on Facebook at Colwell Memorial Home.