James M. Harrison of Warwick passed away on Sunday, Jan. 17, 2021, at St. Anthony Community Hospital in Warwick. He was 84 years old.
Born in New York City on Jan. 6, 1937, he was the son of James M. and Anna (Geoghan) Harrison.
James is survived by his wife Helen (nee Bross); sons Brendan and his companion Christine Baumann and Kevin and his wife Kimberly; grandchildren: Angelika Harrison-Lenz and her husband Nick, Kristopher Trausneck, April Smith, Colin Harrison, Katherine Harrison, Kelsey Harrison and Kyle Harrison; sisters Ann Harrison and Patricia Heineman and her husband George; and many nieces and nephews.
“Big Jim” lived a large and adventurous life. Jim served in the United States Army and Army Reserve after high school.
Upon returning home to the Inwood neighborhood of Manhattan, he became a member of the FDNY. Jim proudly served the FDNY for 29 years, retiring in July of 1989. Upon retirement, never one to sit still, he became a full-time builder in the Warwick area.
James was a wonderful husband and father. He loved to entertain his family and friends, especially his grandchildren. He took great pride in their activities and accomplishments.
He and “the lovely Mrs. Harrison” as he lovingly referred to his wife of 63 years, travelled extensively in their RV, on cruises and tours abroad.
He was an avid outdoorsman who loved hunting and fishing, both locally and on trips to Canada and out West.
Jim was his best in the kitchen and around the dining table. He was a superb cook who loved to prepare amazing meals for family and friends.
After the meal his story telling and good humor would stretch long into the night to the enjoyment of all.
Jim had the gift to connect to all around him, with a funny story a few kind words, you became a friend for life.
The Harrison family would like to thank the staff at St. Anthony’s Hospital and his longtime physician Dr. Shah for their warm and compassionate care.
The family received friends on Jan. 21 at Lazear-Smith & Vander Plaat Memorial Home, 17 Oakland Ave., Warwick.
A Funeral Mass was celebrated Jan. 22, at St. Stephen RC Church, 75 Sanfordville Road, Warwick.
In lieu of flowers the family ask that donations be sent to the New York Firefighters Burn Center Foundation, 21 Asch Loop Bronx NY 10475 or online at www.nyffburncenter.com.
Arrangements were entrusted to Lazear-Smith & Vander Plaat Memorial Home. To send an online condolence, visit www.lsvpmemorialhome.com.