Tom Harbison

Thomas “Tom” Walter Harbison, a man known for his unwavering loyalty, kindness, and infectious sense of humor, passed away on September 26, 2024, at the age of 76 in Independence Village in Waukee. He was born in 1947 in Waynesville, MO, to Walter Harbison and Willie Lou Jenkins, and was the eldest sibling of Sue Harbison and Jane Jackson.

Tom graduated from El Dorado High School in Arkansas, where his love for golf started as a member of the golf team. He continued his education at Oklahoma State University in Stillwater, OK, earning his bachelor’s degree in agriculture economics. While at university, he also served in the Reserves.

In 1969, Tom married the love of his life, Jeanne Mauk, after a memorable ‘blind date’ where she refused to wear her glasses, and Tom broke his. Their marriage was filled with laughter, love, and adventures, lasting 55 beautiful years. Together, they traveled, built a family and shared a lifetime of memories.

One of the family's favorite stories comes from a fishing trip in Puerto Vallarta, where Tom caught a sailfish that now hangs in their basement, bringing ongoing laughter to the entire family every time the story is told.

Tom and Jeanne raised three children: Heather Harbison, Jay Harbison (Jen), and Ross Harbison (Laura). Their family continued to grow with five grandchildren, Brock, Quinn, Hannah, Tommy, and Leila. all of whom brought great joy to Tom’s life.

Tom dedicated much of his career to agriculture banking, working with Wells Fargo and Farmers Hybrid before ending his professional life at the Small Business Administration (SBA). For 20 years, he helped countless entrepreneurs launch their dreams as a small business loan officer. His passion for service extended beyond his career as he spent 17 years as a Scoutmaster, guiding young boys on countless adventures, including a memorable trip to Philmont Scout Ranch in Arizona and the Boundary Waters in Canada.

If you ever had the privilege of meeting Tom, you would not forget him—his kindness, how he made you feel, and his sense of humor left a lasting impression on everyone he encountered.

Tom’s interests were varied, but his love for family was paramount. He enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren, playing golf, hunting, fishing and embracing the outdoors, especially in the mountains. He also had a soft spot for ice cream and atomic fireballs, but couldn’t stand bologna & cheese, or green peppers. His sense of humor, love for life, and devotion to those around him left an indelible mark on everyone he met.

His legacy is one of kindness, grace, and unwavering commitment to family and community.

Even in his final days, Tom’s humor was felt.  His granddaughter Leila leaned over and said, "Have you been a rascal today, Grandpa?"   Tom replied, "Not today." This moment will be lovingly shared, keeping his warmth and spirit alive within the family for generations to come.

Tom will be greatly missed but fondly remembered for his love of life, his big heart, and his ability to bring laughter to all.

Tom is survived by his wife, Jeanne; children, Heather, Jay (Jen), and Ross (Laura); 5 grandchildren, Brock, Hannah, Quinn, Tommy, and Leila; sister, Sue Harbison, and Jane (Russ) Jackson; and many extended family and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents.

A visitation will be held from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m., Thursday, October 3, 2024 at Caldwell Parrish Funeral Home, Adel Chapel. Funeral service will take place at 10:30 a.m., Friday, October 4, 2024 at the First Christian Church in Adel. A private family burial will take place at a later date in the Oakdale Cemetery. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions can be made to Mid-Iowa Council, Scouting Foundation. Give - Boy Scouts of America (scouting.org).