Kathryn Nell Harrison

Fredericksburg - Kathryn Nell Harrison was born on October 8, 1947, in Corpus Christi, Texas, the beloved daughter of Dr. Oliver Harrison and Nell Betty Anderson Harrison. From the very beginning, Kathryn lived with energy, curiosity, and a free spirit that would define her life.

As a child, she was athletic and adventurous, forever chasing after, and looking up to, her brothers, Michael and Bill Harrison. That same enthusiasm carried her through her formative years, where she distinguished herself and earned her All-Star at Camp Waldemar as a proud Tejas. She was honored as a Duchess in Las Doñas de la Corte and presented as a Debutante of De Peneda, milestones that reflected both her grace and her strong ties to community and tradition.

Kathryn graduated from W.B. Ray High School, Corpus Christi, Class of 1965. Kathryn was the third Anderson woman to graduate from the University of Texas, earning her bachelor's degree with the Class of 1969-an accomplishment she carried with pride throughout her life. Following in her mother's footsteps, she was a member of Kappa Alpha Theta. Following her undergraduate studies, she also earned a Master's degree in American Civilization with emphasis in Black history from Metropolitan State University in Denver, Colorado. Kathryn later demonstrated her commitment to leadership and civic engagement as a member of Leadership Texas as well as Leadership America.

A lover of everything and everyone, Kathryn embraced the richness of life fully, including her faith and unique perspective as the daughter of a minister. She was known for her curiosity, her warmth, and her ability to find joy and meaning wherever she went. Her adventurous spirit even led her to win the World Championship Chili Cook-Off in Terlingua, where her green chile venison chili claimed top honors-a victory that delighted her as much as it impressed others.

Kathryn was deeply committed to leaving the world better than she found it. She was a member of the board of directors for the West of the Pecos Rodeo for three years, dedicating her time and talents to preserving and celebrating Texas heritage. She even served a term as President of the Pecos Chamber of Commerce. During her years in Fredericksburg, she served on numerous boards, including Planning and Zoning, Master Naturalists and Historic Review, always advocating thoughtfully for her community and its future.

There was no one Kathryn encountered who was not touched by her ripple of love, kindness, and generosity. Philanthropy was at the very core of her being. She generously supported causes devoted to equality, the arts, environmental stewardship, museums both locally and across the country, research at the Smithsonian, healthcare access and the food pantry. Through her giving spirit, she not only helped feed families and revitalize communities, but also inspired a spirit of altruism in all those whose lives she touched.

Kathryn was preceded in death by her parents, Nell Anderson Harrison and Dr. Oliver Harrison, and by her brother, William Henry Oliver Harrison, Jr., of Corpus Christi.

She is survived by her eldest brother, Michael Anderson Harrison (Brenda) of Midland; her sister-in-law, Cathy Harrison of Corpus Christi; her nephews and nieces, Michael A. Harrison, Jr. (Penny) of Bullard, Christina Harrison Pittman of Bullard, Gray Harrison of Midland, Nicholas Harrison of Midland, William "Hank" Harrison III (Hilary) of Corpus Christi, and Hannah Harrison Marsh (Ryan); and many beloved great-nieces and great-nephews.

The family would like to express its deepest gratitude to the wonderful people who have loved and cared for Kathy with amazing grace, kindness and dedication.

A memorial service was held Saturday, January 3, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. at First Christian Church, 3401 Santa Fe Street, Corpus Christi, Texas.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to The Hill Country Alliance or Community Renewal International.

Kathryn Nell Harrison's life was one of purpose, compassion, and joy. Her legacy lives on in the countless people she uplifted and the better world she worked so tirelessly to create.

Expressions of sympathy can be sent to www.schaetter.com.

Funeral arrangements are under the direction of the Schaetter Funeral Home.