Mr. Robert J. Harrison

Mr. Robert Harrison, also known as Robert James Murray and affectionately called “Rock,” was born on March 31, 1936, in Columbia, South Carolina, to the late Elosie Harrison. He was raised
in Columbia, where he attended Booker T. Washington High School. At the age of 16, Robert volunteered to serve in the United States Army, where he honorably served for three years during the Korean War. His military service reflected his courage, patriotism, and commitment to his country at a young age. After returning to Columbia, he completed his high school education and proudly graduated from Booker T. Washington High School with the Class of 1959. He later continued his education at Voorhees Technical College and Area Trade School, where he acquired technical skills that served him well throughout his career and life.

Deacon Robert Harrison was a faithful and devoted member of Antioch Baptist Church. He was an active member for over 50 years. He served diligently as a Deacon, Usher and he enjoyed singing in the Jubilee Choir. His unwavering commitment to the church reflected his deep faith and lifelong dedication to serving God. Blessed with an exceptional work ethic and strong technical aptitude, Robert used his God-given talent as an electrician and HVAC technician to serve others. He was also skilled in major appliance repair and was widely known for his dependability, willingness to help, and quiet strength.

He was employed at Veteran Dorm Hospital for over 30 years as an electrician. He also started his own business, through which he mentored and trained several young men, passing on his skills and work ethic to the next generation. After his retirement, Robert continued to work with The Budget Control and also provided appliance repair services with Sears, remaining active and committed to serving others well into his later years.

Robert Harrison was also known as Smiley, because he was always smiling and full of joy. He was incredibly friendly and never missed an opportunity to share kind words with everyone he met. Robert loved to dance as you have seen the videos of him and his wife dancing. Robert was also very athletic—he played football and basketball, but baseball held a special place in his heart. His love for the game led him to start a baseball league called the Wheeler Hill Cardinals. In his free time, he enjoyed playing cards and listening to jazz music. He was also a proud member of the Masons.

Robert shared 621⁄2 years of marriage, following 8 years of courtship, with his beloved wife, Mrs. Edna Harrison. Their union stood as a beautiful and lasting example of love, faith, and devotion. He was an awesome father, brother, grandfather,Uncle,great grandfather, friend and neighbor. Mr. Robert Harrison was preceded in death by his parents, his brother, step brothers and sisters.

Those left to cherish his memories include his loving wife,Mrs. Edna Harrison, three children Yolanda Harrison, Robin Harrison-Mayo and Edward Harrison and Son in Law Eric Mayo and Daughter in Law Teosha Harrison. He has 8 grandchildren, Edona Williams( Walter Williams), Emani Pelzer (Tywon Pelzer), Nylah Yarquah (Kwesi Yarquah), Caleb Mayo, Landon Harrison, Cameron Mayo, Lleyton Harrison and Logan Harrison. He has 7 great grandchildren, Jeremiah Jones, Ja’Nyah Williams, Jaliyah Williams, Mckenzey Pelzer, McKaleigh Pelzer, Shiloh Yarquah, and McKyiah Pelzer. His niece Lynda Mitchell(Larry Mitchell) and nephews, Donald Curtis and Alexander Smith and Goddaughter Edsonya Charles. 

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