William (Bill) Gary Harrison, 66, husband of Gloria Hilley McSwain, passed away peacefully at his home on Wednesday, December 16, 2020, the day before his and Gloria’s fifth wedding anniversary. He fought a valiant battle with cancer. Bill was born on January 19, 1954, in Orlando, Florida.
At the age of 13, Bill’s family moved to Atlanta, Georgia. After graduating from Henderson High School in Chamblee, Bill graduated from Mercer University with a B.A. degree in Economics.
For several years, Bill pursued sales positions before finding his passion – construction. He began a solo business, teaching his son, Richard, along the way. After Richard graduated from high school and Central Georgia Technical College, they became a solid team. Their customers became loyal friends who respected their work ethic, honesty, and integrity.
The most outstanding feature of Bill’s character was that he set the standard for fatherhood. As a single dad, raising his son, Bill was always there. He attended every school function and every game in which Richard participated. Bill was a role model which Richard emulates with his own daughter. Needless to say, Lilly loved Grandfather, and Grandfather doted on her.
In his later years, Bill became an avid runner, joined the Macon Tracks Club, and participated in triathlons and marathons. His proudest moment as an athlete was winning first place for his age group in the Coliseum’s Rock ‘N Roll Sprint in 2007. His extraordinary physical ability served him well during his fight with cancer.
In his marriage, Bill demonstrated his love daily with his kindness, wisdom, and consideration. Although Bill and Gloria only had a few years together, they filled them with wonderful trips between struggles of medical treatment. His positive attitude was an example for all.
Bill was predeceased by his father Norman Elwood Harrison. He is survived by his wife, Gloria; son, Richard David Harrison; granddaughter, Lilly Grace Harrison; mother, Edna Maia McLean Harrison; brother, Norman (Kathy) Harrison; sister, Beth (Earl) Reed; and nephews, Todd (Jenny) Harrison and Brad (Liz) Harrison; and step-daughters, Lauren McSwain and Ginny McSwain.
A graveside service at the Davis family Cemetery on Franklinton Road will be held on Tuesday, December 22, 2020, at 11 A.M. The Very Reverend Doctor Richard E. Donohoe will officiate. Face coverings should be worn and social distancing should be maintained. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Federated Garden Clubs of Macon, Inc., P.O. Box 5225, Macon, GA 31208.
Visit www.snowsmacon.com to express tributes, as well as view photos and video from the family.
Snow’s Memorial Chapel, Bass Road, had charge of arrangements.
