Alton Wayne Harrison

Wayne Harrison, born on May 16, 1941, in Baton Rouge, LA, passed away on November 14, 2023, at the age of 82, surrounded by his loved ones.

Wayne grew up in Baton Rouge, LA. He attended and graduated from Baton Rouge High School. He later went on to become a member of the United States Coast Guard Reserve.

He was known to most as Wayne and to a special few as “Pooh”. The nickname originated from Beverly, his wife, to whom he was a dedicated husband for 47 years. He, for as far back as anyone can remember, had an extreme passion of all things LSU, especially football. He was a football season ticket holder for many years and reveled in getting his same tailgating spot every game. Even after he stopped going to the games in person, he was always near a TV or radio to catch them. Wayne often would go back and watch games from years ago over and over again, even though he already knew the outcome.

Wayne loved to travel. It started with camping trips to Waveland, Gulf Shores, Pensacola, Gatlinburg, and even Disney World. His travels grew as he and Beverly retired. They took cruises to Alaska, several trips to Italy, Germany, Turkey, and Egypt. And of course, there was always multiple trips a year to San Antonio to see his daughter and grandchildren.

Wayne spent half of his career in the book printing business, which lead to another nickname, “Bookbinder”. The other half of his life, he proudly served as Sheriff’s Deputy for the East Baton Rouge Parish until he finally retired.

He enjoyed supporting his grandchildren from events like Reagan’s high school flag competitions and college art exhibit, and Harrison’s football games, and basketball games.  

Wayne enjoyed listening to music almost all of the time. He loved all types of music and loved sharing his favorites with others. He spent many an afternoon outside with the speaker blasting and a margarita in his hand.

Wayne was a dedicated husband, uncle, brother, cousin, grandfather, friend, and especially father to Stephanie and Derek until his last days.

He spent his last few months valiantly fighting cancer while always keeping his sense of humor, and keeping everyone else entertained. At some point, his willingness to fight could no longer keep up with the cancer that was weakening his body. He passed peacefully with his children, Stephanie and Derek, present, and his girlfriend, Aretha.

Wayne is survived by his daughter, Stephanie Bridge (Adrian); son, Derek Harrison; grandchildren, Reagan McBride and Harrison McBride; and brother, Dennis Harrison.

He is proceeded in death by his wife of 47 years, Beverly Harrison; parents, Edward C. Harrison, Sr. and Willie Harrison; sister, Kathleen Lard; and brother, Edward C. Harrison, Jr.

Visitation will take place at Resthaven Funeral Home on Monday, November 20, 2023, beginning at 8:30 AM until services at 10:30 AM, officiated by Pastor Leo Miller of First Baptist Church of Denham Springs. Inurnment to follow at Resthaven Gardens of Memory.

The family would like to give a special thanks to Aretha Ainsworth for the love and support you gave our father. Another special thanks to Pinnacle Home Health, particularly Camille Tate, who helped take care of our father and provided us with support and guidance, to Sherry Hester and Shonda Ellis for taking care of our father this last month, and to all our family and friends who rallied behind our dad, kept him entertained, made sure he knew he was loved, and stood beside in love and support throughout these last few months.

Family and friends may sign the online guestbook or leave a personal note to the family at www.resthavenbatonrouge.com.