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Richard (Rick) Russel Harrison, Jr., 75, of Silver Spring, MD, passed away, November 23, 2017
at Holy Cross Hospital.
Rick was born on April 28, 1942 in Abilene, Kansas to Richard Harrison, Sr, and Juanita Gary
Harrison. He graduated from Spingarn High School in Washington, DC in 1959; immediately
enlisted in the Army National Guard, and also went on to attend Howard University, where he
met and would marry, Gayle Davis Harrison in 1963. He later earned a Bachelor of Science
degree in accounting from University of Maryland, University College.
Rick worked at the U.S. Department of Interior for 25 years before retiring as the Director of
Personnel, Bureau of Land Management in 1994. He left the Army National Guard in the early
1970s, but remained in the Army Reserves, retiring as a major after 18 years. In total, he gave
over 30 years of service to the United States Government. Afterwards, he launched Harrison &
Associates, an accounting and tax preparation firm.
An avid saltwater fisherman, Rick, was a member of the Mystic Knights of the Sea Fishing Club.
He also found great enjoyment in listening to jazz and classical music -- a love he inherited from
his father who was himself a jazz musician and music teacher. Rick loved spending time with his
friends and family -- especially his grandchildren. He never missed a game, recital, ceremony or
event in which his grandkids were involved. Many will remember fighting over Rick’s delicious
Chinese spare ribs, enjoyed at countless holiday parties, graduations, and special events.
He is survived by his wife Gayle, son Jeffrey Harrison, daughter Gina Harrison, four
grandchildren: Maya Jefferson, Morgan Jefferson, Cole Jefferson, and Isabella Harrison, sister
Garrie Dozier, sisters-in-law Reverend Dorothy McKinney Wright, Lola Gordon, and a host of
cousins, nieces, nephews, Godchildren, family, friends and fishing buddies. He was a kind and
patient person who was adored by all.
Rick was preceded in death by his parents, Richard and Juanita Harrison, Sr.
Memorial services will be held on Saturday, December 2, 2017 at Hines-Rinaldi Funeral Home
at 11800 New Hampshire Avenue, Silver Spring, MD 20904. The family will be available for
greeting from 10:30AM - 11:00AM and the Memorial Service will begin at 11:00AM. A private
interment will be held at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, the family is asking that donations be made to the American Diabetes
Association.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Sponsored by Hines-Rinaldi Funeral Home.
December 24, 2017
Dana and Jim McGee
Dear Gayle, Gina, Jeff and children, it is with heavy heart I want to say we just found out about your loss of Rick. We are stunned. He was a wonderful boss in the old old days, and always remained a genuine person we all loved, as well as a good friend. He had such integrity, wisdom, patience and calm with a big heart for people. That is so rare. Gone too young. He will be missed by many - so sorry to not be aware of your service for him. My heart breaks for his grandchildren who were the light of his life. May his love, influence and leadership guide his children and grandchildren in their future life paths. We send our most heartfelt sympathies.
December 18, 2017
Marilyn Johnson
To Gaye and the Harrison family, I am so sorry for your loss. He was the first manager to hire me to work for the Bureau of Land Management. He was an outstanding manager and a great friend. Rick was the best! I will keep you and the family in my prayers.
December 16, 2017
John Hoffa
I just learned of Rick's passing today. My condolences to Gayle and the whole family. Rick was a great boss and friend, and left us much too soon. He was a good and kind person and will be remembered and missed by all who knew him.
December 6, 2017
Deirdre Patterson
My deepest condolences on your loss. He was a wonderful man. You and your family are in my prayers.
November 30, 2017
Rosalind Collins
Dear Gina and family,
It was with great sorrow to learn that your father had passed. I am sure you, your brother, and the grandchildren have lots of great memories to share. I am very pleased that you and Alicia have kept in contact since high school. Continue to receive God's blessings. Rosalind Collins
November 29, 2017
peggy dove
The Dove family could not have asked for a better neighbor or friend. To know Rick was to love him. Gina, Jeff, Gayle and the entire family my deepest sympathy.
November 29, 2017
Robin Davis
To the Harrison and Dozier family,
My heart is sadden to hear of Richard's passing. I am so glad that I got a chance to talked with him this past August and sorry that it was the last time. So important to keep in touch with family and friends because you never know when it will be your last time. Remember that the Lord is the lifter up of your head. My prayers are with you all.
Love you,
Cousin Robin
November 29, 2017
Charles Colbert
Mrs Harrison, Jeff and Family, My parents (Barbara/(late) Jim) and I are saddened in the loss of Mr Harrison. In my 48 years of life and global travels with the Navy/Aerospace Defense career ....Mr Harrison was absolutely the nicest person you'd ever come across. Always had a smile on his face and most pleasant personality. He was great addition to this world. The Colbert (804 Cannon Road (1981-2004)
November 29, 2017
Shaundra and Linwood Brown
Gina and family,
I was so sorry to hear of your father's passing. May the Lord grant you peace and comfort. All my love to you and the family.
November 28, 2017
James & Joyce Faison
Dear Gina
James and I are truly saddened by the loss of your Father.
Please know that you are in our thoughts and prayers.
Sending you LOVE.
Mama Joyce and James Faison
November 28, 2017
Pat Hiban
Rick was a good man , a true man , a man without regrets. He inspires me to be an excellent Grand Parent. I always enjoyed catching up with him at Gina's party's . RIP Rick .
November 28, 2017
Jeff Brown
Gina,
May the Lord comfort you and your family in this time of loss. Let the Blessing of your memories ease the pain and knowledge your dad is resting peacefully sooth the loss of his physical presence.
November 28, 2017
Christie Zimmerman
We are sadden for your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with your family.
Zimmerman's
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