William B. Harriman

1932 - 2025

William B. Harriman

West Lebanon, NH - William B. Harriman, Jr., 92, died Tuesday, October 21, 2025, at the Jack Byrne Center at Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center in Lebanon, NH.

Bill was born December 24, 1932, in Lyme Center, NH, a son of William and Elizabeth (Pike) Harriman. He grew up in Lyme attending the Lyme Schools and graduated from Hanover High School in 1951.

Bill joined the Air Force in 1952 serving with the 18th Fighter Bomber Wing as a refueling specialist and was promoted to the rank of Airman Second Class. He completed his assignment in Korea and returned to California at George Airforce Base and returned home in August 1956. Among airman decorations are the National Defense Service Medal, United Nations Service Medal, and the Korean Service Medal. Following his honorable discharge, he married Ethel "Effie" Luce on September 1, 1956, and together they made their home in West Lebanon.

He worked for many years at Powers Furniture Store and part-time at the West Lebanon Quick Stop. Bill later joined the New Hampshire Department of Transportation, working on the road crew, while continuing part-time at the West Lebanon Library. After retiring from the DOT, he went to work full time at the library, where he remained until his retirement in 2022.

Bill was also a dedicated member of the West Lebanon Volunteer Fire Department, where he served for many years and retired with the rank of Lieutenant after 16 years.

He loved the outdoors and was an avid hunter and fisherman, especially enjoying trips to Pittsburg, NH and many trips to the Amish country in Lancaster, PA with his wife. At home, Bill could often be found puttering in his workshop, enjoying Effie's home cooking, or spending time with his dog.

Bill was predeceased by his beloved wife, Effie Harriman; a daughter, Sheila Mears; and a sister, Anna Luce. He is survived by his son, Thomas Harriman of West Lebanon; a daughter, Sharla Aher of Lebanon; six grandchildren; and six great-grandchildren.

Visiting hours will be held on Thursday, November 6 from 4–6 p.m. at Knight Funeral Home in White River Junction. A memorial service will be held Friday at the West Lebanon Congregational Church at10am, with burial to follow in the West Lebanon Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Jack Bryne Palliative/Hospice Care Center, One medical Center Drive, Lebanon, NH or the Lebanon Libraries Foundation, 80 Main Street, West Lebanon, NH 03784.