1922-2021
Dorothy Barber Harbison, 98, died at her Parkway Place home in Houston, on January 5, 2021, completing what she and all those around her knew to be a long and wonderful life's journey. Born on the Resaca near San Benito, Texas, Dorothy was working at the Army's Camp Hulen in Palacios, Texas, when in 1942 she met and married J.M. (Jim) Harbison of Palacios. After the war, the couple moved to Eunice, Louisiana where they lived for several years. They came to Houston in the 50s before later settling in Sugar Land where they remained for 33 years. Dorothy spent her last 17 years in independent living at Parkway Place, where she was affectionately known as the "Muffin Lady" for the thousands of muffins she baked and delivered to all other Parkway Place residents. Dorothy was a long-time member of Sugar Land Baptist Church and served for many years on the staff of Fort Bend Independent School District. She will ever be remembered for her rare and inspiring combination of character, strength, wit, charm, and generosity.
Dorothy was preceded in death by her husband, J.M., and her son, Charles Harbison. She is survived by her son James M. Harbison, Jr. and his wife Yonok Cho, and son Russell N. Harbison and his wife Gigi, all of the Houston area; grandchildren RaNee Harbison Steed of Austin, Kimberly Harbison Franklin of Magnolia, and Michael Harbison, Matthew Harbison, Jill Harbison Raddin, and Kate Harbison Raffaele, all also of the Houston area; and ten great grandchildren. The family wishes to thank Liz Castillo, together with Irma and Alejandra Castillo, for the loving care they gave Dorothy during her last years.
Services in Sugar Land and burial in Palacios will be private. Donations may be made in Dorothy's honor to friends' chosen charities or to the Salvation Army (www.salvationarmyusa.org).
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