Herman Clark Harrison

Herman Clark Harrison went to be with the lord on Thursday, March 6th at age 97 at Friendship Health and Rehab Center South in Roanoke, Virginia. Herman was born on December 28th, 1927, at the family home place in Franklin County, Virginia. He was preceded in death by his father Benjamin Clark Harrison, his mother Mamie McGhee Harrison, his brother Jack Garland Harrison and sister-in-law Martha Henry Harrison. Herman is survived by his niece Mary Harrison Smith and husband Eric Smith, his great-niece Meredith Smith and boyfriend Matthew Blankenship, and many dear friends.

Herman was exceptionally bright, scoring excellent in his aptitude tests at Franklin County High School, graduating at the top of his class in 1945. He was encouraged by many of his teachers to continue his education further but chose instead to dedicate his life to working on the family farm, which he learned from his father. He raised beef cattle, tobacco, corn, soybeans, and many other crops. Herman was also a carpenter who worked for various local contractors on many projects, including local Dairy Queens and building houses in his community. As the popularity of Smith Mountain Lake grew, he was called upon to help construct houses on the lake because of his skill and precision.

After retiring from both farming and carpentry, Herman could often be found at Smith’s Tire Shop on weekday afternoons, playing cards, enjoying fellowship with friends, and even stocking inventory from time to time. When Herman could no longer leave the house, he focused his attention on his many stray cats, many of which were like pets, and looked forward to frequent visits from friends and neighbors. They not only brought him fellowship, but also delicious food to satisfy his tremendous sweet tooth. The family wishes to sincerely thank those generous friends and neighbors who always looked out for Herman’s wellbeing. Although he may have never expressed his gratitude to you, he always mentioned to his niece Mary how much he appreciated each one of you. Herman was certainly one of a kind. His work ethic was untouched, and his wittiness never failed to make you smile. He will be missed dearly by his family and friends.

Your labor is done, your home is now heaven; no more must you wait. Your legacy and love for your land lives on, but now we must close the gate.

Visitation will be from 11-12 with service following on Thursday, March 13th at Conner-Bowman Funeral Home (62 Virginia Marketplace Drive, Rocky Mount 24151). Graveside will be at Pleasant Hill Church (2717 Ruritan Rd, Rocky Mount, VA 24151) following the service.