Billy Don Harwood

Billy “Don” Harwood of Swartz Creek, Michigan, passed away peacefully on Thursday, October 1, 2026, at the age of 91. A memorial service celebrating Don’s life will be held at 1:00 PM on Monday, November 2, 2026, at Sharp Funeral Homes, Miller Road Chapel, located at 8138 Miller Road, Swartz Creek, Michigan. The family will receive friends from 11:00 AM until the service begins.

Don was born on April 1, 1935, in Piggott, Arkansas, to William and Elsie Harwood. He moved to Michigan, where he spent most of his life in the Flint area. In 1958, he and his family settled in the Gaines and Swartz Creek community, where he lived in the same home until his passing. He graduated from Flint Central High School in 1953 and later earned an associate’s degree in business from Flint Junior College. Don worked for nearly 40 years as a data processor at General Motors, then spent a decade at EDS, retiring in 1995.

On July 27, 1957, Don married Jane Lucille O’Brien in Flint after a blind date that blossomed into a wonderful 65-year partnership, which continued until Jane's passing on March 3, 2022. Don was an outdoor enthusiast and an active member of his community. He dedicated 14 years to serving as a Cub Scout and Boy Scout leader and received the Silver Beaver Award for his contributions to Scouting. He enjoyed a variety of activities, including camping, hiking, hunting, bowling, and golf, often spending time on the golf course with family and sharing meals and laughter after their games.

Family was central to Don's life. He treasured moments around the dining table during game nights and summer picnics. Known for his playful spirit, he had a talent for teasing those he loved. Everyone around him cherished his kindness and humor. Curious about the world, Don loved meeting new people and building connections. He considered himself a collector of various treasures, with a passion for gathering items that brought him joy. His roots ran deep in his home and community, and he led a fulfilling life surrounded by loved ones and passions.

Don is survived by his children, Susie (Rick) Mitchell, Matt (Phyllis) Harwood, and Steve Harwood; his grandchildren, Sandra Mitchell, Wendy (Greg) Fowler, Kyle (Kayla) Harwood, Kaitlin (P.K.) Schelb, Donavan Harwood, and Allyson Harwood; great-grandchildren Aeton Fowler and Cole Harwood; and numerous nieces and nephews, especially his nephew, Mike (Connie) Harwood. He was preceded in death by his wife, Jane; his parents, William and Elsie; his brother, Everett “Ray” Harwood; his niece, Sandy Tucker; his daughter-in-law, Kim Harwood; and several brothers- and sisters-in-law.

Don will be greatly missed, but the love he shared and his sense of humor will remain in the hearts of those who knew him.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Don’s name can be made to the Swartz Creek Senior Center or the Swartz Creek Fine Arts Association, two organizations he supported throughout his life. 

Memories and online condolences may be shared with the family at www.SharpFuneralHomes.com