Damon DeCarlos Hairston, Sr.

Damon DeCarlos Hairston Sr. was an amazing man with an infectious spirit, a heart of gold, and a deep love for people. Born March 6th, 1974, in Michigan City, IN, to Joyce Brown (Stanley) Fox and Thomas Lee (Cynthia) Henderson Sr., Damon grew up in a large family filled with overflowing love and laughter. He was baptized at an early age at Mt. Olive Missionary Baptist Church under the leadership of Pastor Henry L. Giden Sr., beginning a life grounded in faith and compassion.

Known to many as DeCarlos, Coley, Daddy, Paw Paw, bro, mentor, coach, and friend, Damon brought joy and encouragement to everyone he met. His passion for basketball was unmatched—he made varsity at Clay High School as a freshman, started as a sophomore, and earned NIC MVP Player of the Year in both his junior and senior years.

A devoted son, father, grandfather, and friend, Damon’s life was guided by kindness, strength, and generosity. He valued being at peace, healthy living, and staying in shape—while living life to the fullest and loving those who loved him.

Damon was a man of many talents and a determined entrepreneur. He built a thriving lawn care service and launched a clothing line, proudly standing by his motto: “Judge me—you gone do it anyways.”

Selfless and humble, Damon loved showing up for others, bringing joy wherever he went, and always striving to grow and improve in every area of his life. His faith, work ethic, and love for people leave behind a legacy of resilience, hope, and inspiration.

Damon leaves to cherish his memory, his parents Joyce Brown Fox and Thomas Lee (Cynthia) Henderson Sr., his children; Ashley Hairston, Damon Hairston Jr.(2 granddaughters & 4 grandsons), Jasmine Harris, Aerionn Hairston, Kyrah Dempsey, Mark Stevenson and Alexiss Phillips all of South Bend.  His siblings, sisters: Carlotta (Eugene) Williams, Romunda Brown, Sharon Williams and Tracy (Bobby) Peck. Brothers: Chauncey Fox, Shawn (Jennifer) Henderson, Quincy Henderson, Chris Henderson, Daryl Henderson, Adrian (Latoya) Swanson, DeAlto Swanson all of South Bend and Carl (Jo) Phillips of Katy, TX. A special friend Nicki Dotson. A host of beloved aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins, dear friends, and brothers for life! 

The ones who preceded him in death, brother, Thomas Henderson Jr., Maternal Grandparents, Bobbie Winfrey, REV J.S.A. Brown. Paternal Grandparents,  Algerine (Minnie) Henderson Sr., Uncles , Jerry Guiden & Duck Henderson, nephew, Novell Lester Jr., Cousin, Damien Wafford Jr., and Goddaughter, Shareita Patton.

Visitation will be held on Saturday, August 16, 2025, at 11:00am EDT at the Pentecostal Cathedral COGIC, 1025 West Western Avenue, South Bend, Indiana, 46601. This will be followed by a Celebration of Life at the same venue at 12:00pm EDT. Condolences may be sent to alfordsmortuary@att.net. 

In celebrating the life of Damon, we invite you to share your memories, stories, and upload photos on his memorial page. This will provide comfort to those grieving and serve as a lasting tribute to a man who lived his life with passion, warmth, and an unwavering commitment to those he loved.​​

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