Preston Ressie Harrison

Preston Reese Harrison, admired by many, and loved by countless more, entered this world on October 11, 1935, in Derby, Virginia. Born to Alexander (AD) and Dirlee Grace Harrison to whom eight children had already been born. He added number nine to the Harrison team which would eventually grow to a beautiful dozen.

The Harrison family relocated to Holden, West Virginia, where he attended Aracoma Jr. High School, graduating from Aracoma Senior High. After graduating, he made his way to Bluefield State College and then going on to serve his country as a Paratrooper, completing his service in the 82nd Airborne.

Preston Reese Harrison ready for new horizons and more adventure, moved to Columbus, Ohio. His first job, teaching Swim lessons at the YMCA, he would never forget meeting the vivacious Gloria Linville Harrison the love of his life. They together would share a love some only dream about. Three children are born to this union, a profound friendship, 62 years of marriage and lifelong love affair.

Preston Reese Harrison, well known for his love for children, was born to serve others. He served as a Cottage Leader for at risk youth, at TICO (Training Institute of Central Ohio); he completed 35 years of service in the United States Postal Service and served as president in multiple organizations as well. Through his journey he connected with numerous people, accumulated many valuable friendships and created very special relationships. Everyone he met became family. Affectionately calling him "Chief", "Pres", "Big Pres", "Big Six", "Dad", "Uncle Preston", just to name a few of his relational love handles.

Preston Reese Harrison, husband, brother, father, and uncle, was a friend to many often- coaching children, and mentoring younger parents in his community. With even greater measure his grandchildren were the apple of his eye.

Preston Reese Harrison always knew that God was his protection, and he ran from His Spirit a long time, but when he finally said yes to the Lord, it was yes, yes, yes Lord. Already created in the image of God, he was baptized, under the leadership of Dr. Charlene E. Watkins, Second Community Church and he became a fisher of men for Jesus Christ. He summoned, gathered, and brought his children, grandchildren, buddies, and friends alike to meet his savior. In the church he served as a Trustee and served the building itself by planting flowers, greenery and creating a place of beauty. After a long life in service to others and saying yes to the Lord,
Preston Reese Harrison went home to be with the Lord, Wednesday, September 2, 2026.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Alexander and Dirlee; Sisters Henrietta, Emma Lou, Leslie, Barbara and Thema. Brothers; Paul, (as a child) Alex, Edward, Joeseph Luke, and Robert.

He leaves to cherish his memory; Wife Gloria Linville Harrison, three children, Paul Reece Harrison, Deborah Lin Harrison, Preston Joseph Harrison. Sister; Kathryn (Earl) Rose. Grand Children; Dymond Harrison, Qaylea Harrison, Ariyanna Pierce Harrison, Natalie Harrison, Preston Joeseph Reese Harrison. Great Grandchildren; Braydon Preston Rice, Bronson Preston Rice, Bronze Preston Rice, Saint Pierce Harrison. Many Nieces and Nephews and Brother/Friends; Frank (Leona) Bell, Freddie Parks, Moose Calloway, Snap Hamilton, Shaw (Ernest), Son/Friend Darrell (Charlotte) Lawrence, Richard (Carmie) Ross. Sisters in Law; Betty Whatley, Beverly Johnson and many other loved ones.