Harry Donald Nicholson Sr.

Harry Donald Nicholson, Sr. passed away at home in Mertzon, TX, on Thursday, January 2, 2025, at the age of 89. He was born on January 16, 1935, in Corsicana, Texas, to Danny Taylor and Anita Fay (Butler) Nicholson.

Known to many as “Judge” & “Big Daddy”, Donald truly seeked to inspire and educate those around him. Graduating from Corsicana High School as an Eagle Scout and Valedictorian of the class of 1953, he went on to earn a bachelor’s degree from Southern Methodist University in 1957, followed by a law degree from Southern Methodist University Law School in 1959.

Over the next 20 years, Donald served in many roles.

He was an Assistant District Attorney for Henry Wade in Dallas, TX, Assistant U.S. District Attorney in Eastern District of Texas, Federal District Attorney in Tyler, TX and elected District Court Judge & Juvenile Judge of Navarro County.

Donald deeply appreciated nature and respected all that God had to offer. He was an avid hunter and considered it a blessing to be able to visit and explore many parts of the world. He was truly intrigued by the beauty of wild animals; the people and he enjoyed learning about different cultures while on his expeditions. Being one of the best hunters and a storyteller, Donald kept everyone interested that had the privilege to sit and talk with him. He had a close relationship with God.

Donald was a devoted and caring husband. Loving to talk and laugh, he met his match and when he met his wife, Linda Nicholson. For the last 15 years of marriage, they made great memories hunting and traveling together. He will always be considered “the Most interesting man in the world” to Linda.

Survived by a son Harry Donald Nicholson, Jr. and his sister, Diane Dean; Donald is also truly blessed to have a family that loved him; including his bonus children John Bernard, Bobbi and Robbie Roberts; and all his bonus sisters and brother in laws. Also, many nieces and nephews.

Known as “Big Daddy”, he loved all of his six grandchildren; Nick, Taylor, Nathan and James Nicholson; and Cole and Creed Roberts.

He was preceded in death by his parents Danny & Anita; his brother, Danny Jr.; and his son, Nathan Clay Nicholson. There is no doubt that he is rejoicing in heaven and storytelling with family and his dear friends that have passed before him.

Donald’s wishes were to be cremated and the following inscription to be on his headstone-

“A Renaissance Man” When my time this earth has passed, grieve for me not, for I have been greatly blessed. I have seen magnificent wild creatures and the lands where they lived and I know their Creator as my own”!

He meant this statement and was ready in his mind and heart on the day of his passing. His uplifting spirit touched everyone around him and he will be deeply missed by all his family and great friends and especially by his fur babies Sam & Bentley.

To celebrate his life and share stories and adventures, the family would like to make a memory book in his honor. Please post anything you would like to share here:

Please visit www.harper-funeralhome.com to leave a memory on his tribute wall.

Celebration of his life is planned for February 10, 2025: 10am-12 noon, at Harper Funeral Home, 2606 Southland Boulevard, San Angelo, TX 76904

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to one of the many organizations that Donald supported due to their education and study of wild animals:

World Wildlife Fund –

www.worldwildlife.org

Dallas Safari Club-

www.biggame.org

North American Sheep Foundation

www.wildsheepfoundation.org