Andrew Harrison

Andrew Harrison was born February 26, 1942, to Marion and Maggie (Smith) Harrison in Fairfield County, South Carolina.  Andrew received his formal education within the Fairfield County School District during a time when a quality education wasn’t easily accessible to people of color. This set ablaze a passion for learning and a genuine care and concern for others that he later instilled in his children. This led him to pursue a bachelor’s degree in social work from Benedict College. While there he was drafted into the United States Army and was stationed at Fort Hood, Texas. While in the military, he played saxophone in the band and served as a sharpshooter.

Once discharged he returned to Benedict College and completed his bachelor’s degree in 1969. Shortly after Mr. Harrison married the love of his life, Patricia Ann Strong on August 2, 1969. The couple soon relocated to Richmond, Virginia, where Andrew matriculated through Virginia Commonwealth University, obtaining a Master of Social Work. The couple then returned to South Carolina where Andrew began his career as a psychiatric social worker with the
South Carolina Department of Mental Health. Mr. Harrison retired from the William Jennings Bryan Dorn Veterans Affairs Medical Center as a psychiatric social worker in December 2007, having helped countless veterans over his 30-year tenure within the organization. Although Mr. Harrison was a social worker by occupation, he thoroughly enjoyed engaging in home improvement projects and was quite handy. Indeed, his wife affectionately called him, “Handy Andy.” Mr. Harrison loved his children immensely, instilling his values and work ethic in them.  

He also absolutely adored his grandchildren. Thus, he was integral in the rearing of Azsa and Aubrey.  Mr. Harrison was preceded in death by his parents; four brothers Curtis Harrison, Nathaniel Harrison, Ernest Harrison,
and George Harrison; and four sisters, Ruth Belton, Willie Mae Canty, Inita Moon, and Barbara Ann Jenkins.

He leaves to cherish his memory: his loving and devoted wife of 54 years Patricia Ann Strong of the home and two doting daughters: Calandra Davis and Andrea (Monty) Phronebarger. Andrew is also survived by a son, Cale Carter; two brothers: James (Natsumi) Harrison and Charles (Vivian) Harrison; two sisters: Bessie Wood and Dorothy (James) Price; two sisters-in-law: Susie Harrison and Viette Harrison; one brother-in-law: Robert (Rosemary) Strong; one granddaughter: Azsa Davis; and one grandson: Aubrey Davis.

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