Paul Clifford Harrison

Paul Clifford Harrison, age 93, died July 4th at Croasdaile Village in Durham, N.C. Mr. Harrison was a native and long-time resident of Roanoke Rapids, N.C. and lived on his family farm until 2000. He is preceded in death by his mother, Adelee Hockaday Harrison and father, Millard “Mac” Francis Harrison. His beloved sisters, Danridge Harrison, Dinah Harrison, Mae Henderson, Odine Taylor and two brothers, “Son” and “Bud” Harrison. He was also preceded in death by his late wife, Edith Wright Harrison who died in 1979 after a long battle with cancer. They are survived by their only child, Kathy Harrison of Chapel Hill, N.C. Also surviving are two dear nephews Ed Henderson and wife, Barbara of Hendersonville, N.C., Cranford Taylor and wife Beverly of Seneca, S.C. and dear niece Priscilla Harrison Davis, and husband C.B. Davis of Roanoke Rapids. Mr. Harrison was a veteran of World War II and served on the USS John P. Gray, a destroyer escort in the Pacific fleet. He was discharged in San Diego and wrote his mother, he’d take a month or so coming home. When asked about the war, Cliff would always say he was never afraid and never got sea-sick. Returning to Roanoke Rapids, he worked for McPherson Beverage Company and Gowen Oil Company. However, he was always a farmer at heart and was happiest when working the family farm. In later years, he worked at Roanoke Rapids Air Force Station and retired in 1978. After his wife’s death, he became a member of Rosemary United Methodist Church and there met his cherished friend, Beth Garner. He was devoted to Beth and her wonderful children and grandchildren. They are Nancy Garner Moseley and husband Wendell, Ann Garner Phillips and husband Wren, both of Roanoke Rapids, Scott Garner and wife Allison of Matthews, NC and their many special children and grandchildren. Mr. Harrison’s arrangements will be handled by Cremation Society of North Carolina and a family service will be planned in the fall. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that contributions be made to Rosemary United Methodist Church, 900 Jackson Street, Roanoke Rapids, N.C. 27870 in Mr. Harrison’s memory.