James Harrison, Jr.

James Thomas Harrison, 67, passed away at his home on Monday, May 5, 2014. Jim was born on December 31, 1946 in Salisbury, NC. He is the son of the late James T. Harrison, Sr. and Anne Walser Harrison. A man with a well-constructed joke for every occasion and a warm smile for everyone he met, Jim made everyone feel welcome, noticed, and loved. He relished in a good story, and was as good a storyteller as he was an appreciative audience member. Jim loved to dance, especially with his favorite partner, Joan. In a related note, he was also a Clemson fan. He lived each day as if it was a celebration, and if it wasn't a celebration yet, he knew how to make it one. Jim is survived by his children, Jenny Bunn (Scott) of Asheville, NC, and Matt Harrison of Tumbaco, Ecuador; two grandchildren, Stella and Levi Bunn; his sister, Carol Williams of Monroe, NC; his brother, David Harrison of Salisbury, NC; and many nieces and nephews. He is also survived by his longtime sweetheart, Joan Whitlock of Spartanburg, SC. Joyce Harrison of Spartanburg, SC was the friend and former wife of Jim. He was a Lieutenant Colonel in the U.S. Army and also served in the National Guard for a total of 23 years of service to our country. He was a teacher in many senses of the word, but also in the professional sense - he taught sixth grade at Houston Elementary School before his retirement. He was a devoted member of the Downtown Sertoma Club, a regular at the YMCA, and a member of St. Paul United Methodist Church. A memorial service will be held at 4:00 PM Sunday, May 11, 2014, at St. Paul United Methodist Church with a visitation prior from 3:00-3:45 PM. The Downtown Sertoma Club will serve as Honorary Escort at the service. All who loved Jim are welcome to celebrate his life immediately following the service at the home of Janice and Alva Pack, 111 Springlake Drive, Spartanburg, SC 29302. In remembrance of Jim, memorials may be made to USS Yorktown Foundation, 40 Patriots Point Rd., Mt. Pleasant, SC 29464. Floyd's North Church Street Chapel To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of James Thomas Harrison, Jr. please visit our Sympathy Store.