Duane J. Fairris

Duane J. Fairris, 66, of Saginaw, Michigan, passed away peacefully on Friday, August 22, 2025, at MyMichigan Medical Center in Saginaw, Michigan.

Born on May 9, 1959, in Saginaw, Michigan, Duane was the beloved son of Johnnie T. and Elester Fairris. He spent his early years surrounded by the love of his family, forging strong bonds with his siblings that would last a lifetime.

During his younger years, Duane played many sports, especially Basketball, forming amazing friendships with teammates and a brotherhood that would last a lifetime. After Duane graduated from Buena Vista High School in 1978, he went on to pursue an associate’s degree from Delta College. Upon completion of his degree, Duane began his lifelong journey as a dedicated worker for the community of Buena Vista.

Duane served in many roles during his career: Director of Public Safety for the Buena Vista Community School District and the Assistant Director for the Buena Vista Community Center. He also coached many sports, served as a mentor to many, a disciplinarian, and voice of reason for most who were raised and attended BV. Believing he could do more, Duane became the Director of the Buena Vista Community Center, serving 26+ Years with passion, service, and commitment to the BV Community. He enjoyed greeting the Seniors as they walked into the community center with his infectious smile.

Duane was a laid-back guy who enjoyed old school R&B, Dancing, and of course, watching sports, whether in person or at home in the man cave. Duane was a dapper dresser, no matter the occasion.

Duane loved spending quality time with his Wife, Kids, and checking on his siblings, nieces, & nephews here and there. He also believed in making sure, spiritually, he was connected with God. Duane became a member of New Life Baptist Ministries several years ago under the direction of Dr. Craig A. Tatum. Bringing years of experience to the table, he began working with the Security Ministry and assisting with community service projects throughout the year.

Duane was a devoted husband, brother, father, and friend. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him and whose lives he touched with warmth and integrity. 

Duane leaves to cherish his Life, Love, and Legacy his wife, Patricia Fairris; son, Torrey (Kacy) Fairris; daughter, Trinae Fairris; grandkids, Jaylen Fairris, Jordyn Fairris, Torri-Symone Fairris, Khaloni-Reign Fairris, Nylah Rose Brown; siblings, Olivia Thomas, Geneva Parker, Annie Lois Fairris-Holiday, Douglas (Yvonne) Brown Sr., and Percy (Charlean) Fairris. A host of amazing brothers-in-law, sisters-In-law, special grandkids, tons of loved nieces, nephews, cousins, and others he considered family.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Johnnie T. Fairris and Elester Fairris, grandparents, and siblings, Athena Brown, William Clarence Brown, and James Fairris.