Donald Joseph Pharis

We are saddened to announce the passing of Donald Joseph Pharis (Coach) on April 6, 2024. He passed away peacefully at the age of 81 at his memory care facility in Gahanna, Ohio surrounded by family. Don was born December 11, 1942 in Douglas, Georgia to Harley Pharis and Virue Fussell Pharis where he was raised with his two brothers, Ralph and Jerry. He attended high school at Coffee County High School where he was quarterback for the football team and pole vaulted for the track team. He got a track scholarship and moved to Florida to attend Florida State University, where he set a record for pole vaulting. He graduated in 1965 with a Bachelor of Science degree and moved to Melbourne, Florida. Don and former spouse, Judy (Reimer) Collins had three children together. He was a coach and P.E. teacher at Hoover Junior High and then Suntree Elementary, where he retired from. Don loved cheering on the Florida State University football team. In his retirement he liked to travel, invent, and loved everything involving the sun and water. Don is preceded in death by his parents, Harley and Virue Pharis; his brother and sister-in-law, Ralph and Ann Pharis; and his sister-in-law, Jeri Pharis. He is survived by his brother Jerry Pharis, and three daughters, their husbands and children: Jennifer (Paul) McCormick, Kyle, Cameron; Stephanie (Dan) Wharton, Melissa (Ryan) Bilikam, Price, Josie; and many extended family and friends. At Don's request, a service will be private. Memorial donations may be made in his name to

Alzheimer's Foundation of America https://alzfdn.org/donate/