Don Wayne Harper, Jr. was born on March 31, 1969, in Detroit, Michigan, to Cynthia (Griffin) Harper and Don Wayne Harper , Sr. Don, affectionately known as TJ by his family and “Harp” by his Navy brothers, was a proud Navy veteran who took his service very seriously.

Don was raised in Detroit, where he spent his childhood on both the east and west sides of the city. He was educated in the Detroit Public Schools and graduated from Murray-Wright High School in 1987.

In 1988, Don began his distinguished Navy career, serving aboard the USS Juno (LPD-10). He was later stationed in Japan for several years and went on to become a proud Navy Seabee. Throughout his military service, Don deployed in support of Operation Desert Shield/Operation Desert Storm, Persian Gulf War, Operation Noble Eagle, Operation Enduring Freedom, Operation Iraqi Freedom. His time in the Navy allowed him to travel extensively and experience diverse countries and cultures—memories and experiences he treasured throughout his life.

In recognition of his dedication and service, Don received numerous medals and commendations, including the Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal, Southwest Asia Service Medal, Navy Unit Commendation, Good Conduct Medal, Kuwait Liberation Medal (twice), Navy Expert Pistol Shot Medal, Navy Marksman Ribbon with Sharpshooter Device, and the Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal. Don remained immensely proud of his service and of the honor of becoming a Seabee.

Don and Valeria reconnected in 2004 and created a beautiful blended family combining Don’s 5 daughters with Valeria’s 2 sons. To their union they were blessed with a baby boy. Don and Valeria shared 22 years of happiness, including many family road trips. Don especially loved when his wife joined him as his navigator during his truck-driving journeys. Their most unforgettable trip was their travels to The North Pole area of Alaska, where they created and cherished many lasting memories.

After being honorably discharged in 2005, Don transitioned into civilian life and began a career as a truck driver. In 2008 Don was initiated into the Masonic brotherhood and was raised as a Master Mason, A distinction he regarded with great honor and commitment. A true jack of all trades, Don held many jobs throughout his life, but truck driving was his greatest passion. He loved the open road and the deep sense of purpose it gave him.

In 2021, Don became ill after contracting COVID-19, beginning a challenging new chapter in his life. On October 29, 2021, he received a double lung transplant. Even in the face of immense adversity, Don displayed extraordinary resilience, strength, and determination. Just three months after his transplant, he proudly hiked 3.5 miles up a mountain in Tennessee, a powerful testament to his will and perseverance.

Don transitioned from this life on December 21, 2025, at 12:28 a.m., surrounded by loved ones.

Left to cherish Don’s memory is the love of his life and best friend of 22 years, his wife, Valeria (Carlisle) Harper, who faithfully walked beside him through every season of life and will forever honor and cherish his legacy; his beloved children, Brittany Chissolm, Raynisha Harper, Dominic Carlisle, Dezire (Cohen) Harper, Demitri Carlisle, Anya Harper, and Desmond Harper; cherished grandchildren, Briella and Josiah Chissolm; his mother, Cynthia Crawford; father, Don Harper, Sr. (Lori); Godmother, Seletha Robertson; Godfather, Richard Robertson; loving siblings, Stacy (Michael) Harper Jones, Derik Harper, Douglas Harper, Christopher (Keyandra) Gibson, Dexter Harper, Elizabeth Harper, and Dante Gibson; Godbrother, Kesmond Robertson; and a large and loving family of aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, a great-nephew, cousins, and a host of bonus family members.

Don was preceded in death by his beloved daughter, Sion La Sha Harper.

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