Donald Porter

In Loving Memory of Donald Porter

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Donald Porter, a beloved husband, father, and friend, who peacefully departed from this life on September 13, 2023. Born on March 6, 1952, in Harrisburg, PA, Donald lived a life marked by kindness, resilience, and devotion to his loved ones.

In his early years he attended Glenwood School in Edgemont, and was a graduate of William Penn High School class of 1970.

In his professional life, Donald found purpose as a retired truck driver for Rubin Brothers. His dedication to his career was admirable, and his commitment to his responsibilities earned him the respect and admiration of his colleagues. In addition to working at Jazz Land, Carter’s Oil and Mechanicsburg Naval Depot.

Outside of his professional endeavors, Donald possessed a passion for life and found joy in the simplest of pleasures. Whether it was spending quality time with family, sharing laughter with friends, or indulging in his favorite hobbies, Donald's upbeat spirit illuminated every room he entered. His infectious smile and genuine love for others touched the hearts of all who knew him. He was a bowler, coached Little League baseball for the North League, a Dallas Cowboy fan and volunteered for Meals on Wheels at the Heinz – Menaker Senior Center.

Donald also believed that his faith in the Lord carried him through his journey. He was a member of Trinity Church of Harrisburg, an Elder, Trustee and served on the Men of Joshua’s Ministry. Donald loved his church family and they loved him.

Donald was previously married to Shirley Dean and from that union, they raised two sons. He later met and married his devoted wife, Vanessa (Putney) Waters and from this union he gained a daughter and a son. Together Donald and Vanessa celebrated 35 years of marriage. Donald's dedication to his family was unwavering throughout his journey. As a devoted husband, he shared countless happy years with Vanessa, together, they built a strong and nurturing partnership that served as the foundation of their family's unity.

Donald was preceded in death by his parents the late Emanuel and Frances Porter, his brothers Hubert, Robert, Stanley, Thomas (Muss) Ervin (Piper) and Morris (Jimbo) Porter, his sisters, Frances (Sissy) and Doris Porter. He leaves to cherish his memories his wife Vanessa Porter, sons Eric Porter, Anthony Porter (Lisa) and Rondell Waters, a daughter Melinda (Lindy) Coward, and brother Ronald Porter (Janie). He also leaves 8 grandchildren, 8 great grandchildren, Aunts Maggie Barbee, Mary Hughes, and Sheila Lowery (Evan) of North Carolina, Uncle Evan Lowery of North Carolina, and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, in-law, and friends. Donald's presence will forever be missed, but his memory will remain eternally cherished, rest in eternal peace, Donald Porter.

Services will be streamed, via Skype. Please click the link provided to view.