Harry Thomas Deskin, Jr.

Harry Thomas Deskin, Jr., age 90, went to Heaven on December 18, 2020, in time to spend Christmas with his beloved wife, Martha, as they had for the past 69 years here on Earth. Harry was from Blytheville, AR, son of the late Harry Deskin, Sr. and Clara Fulcher Deskin.

Harry was a U.S. Army Veteran, having served in Japan during the Korean War. During a training exercise at Fort Smith, AR, Harry’s Commanding Officer approached in a jeep to report that Harry’s new bride, Martha, had phoned him to say she was graduating high school the next day. Harry was ordered to get on a bus bound for Osceola and to be back at Basic Training within 48 hours.

Harry and Martha moved to Memphis to raise their family, son Tom Deskin daughter Connie Powell and son Mark Deskin. Harry worked as a Draftsman at American Finishing Company and then as Office Manager for Industrial Sales Company. After moving to Germantown, Harry and Martha enjoyed working together in their yard, frequently winning recognition for Yard of the Month in their neighborhood, and providing a lovely place for their grandchildren Ashley Eggers, Melanie Deskin, Christian Deskin, Chad Powell, Stone Powell-mcdavitt, Laura Deskin and Melissa Deskin to play and visit with their grandparents and for their great-grandchildren, Lilli Eggers, Hamilton Eggers, Jr., Parker Powell and Alexa Powell, as well.

Harry was an avid reader and made frequent trips to the Germantown Library to find the latest book, whether a mystery by John Grisham, something set in the Old West or to learn about American History. Harry was a talented painter and his family members often requested he reproduce works of art they liked. Many family members are lucky enough to have paintings done by Harry, which they will treasure even more now as family heirlooms. Harry was more than happy to paint pictures for others. His regular trash collector brought him a school picture of his granddaughter and Harry painted a lovely portrait of the little girl for him.

Harry was the go-to handyman in his family and his home featured many improvements and renovations he did himself. When his children got their own homes, they knew a visit from Dad required a project to keep him busy and entertained. Brick planters, fences, finished rooms, and built-in bookcases are just a few of the projects he was happy to take on.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Harry’s memory to Emmanuel United Methodist Church online at www.emmanuelmemphis.org/ online-giving or by check payable to Emmanuel United Methodist Church, 2404 Kirby Rd., Memphis, TN 38119.