Robert Harriston Jr.

Robert Harriston Jr., son of the late Robert Harriston and Winnie Mae Kornegay Harriston, was born on September 8, 1937 in New York, New York. He departed this life at the age of 88 on June 11, 2026 in Richmond, VA where he enjoyed living for the last 3 decades. In addition to both parents, he was predeceased by sisters Shirley Annette Burstion and Kay Evelyn Temple, and brothers, James Harriston and Lemuel Harriston.

At an early age, Bob joined Sts. Peter and Paul Church in Manhattan and served as an altar boy. He moved for a few years to Mount Olive, NC with his mother and younger siblings and earned a diploma from Carver High School. Upon returning to New York, he was unable to fund his wish to attend college to pursue his dream of obtaining a degree and career in Architecture. He worked as a bank teller until, at his sister Kay’s urging, he joined her as a police officer in the New York City Police department in 1961. Bob’s strong work ethic helped him to progress quickly from patrolman to detective. He served notably as a Community Affairs Officer for Brooklyn’s 71st precinct, covering Crown Heights, the neighborhood in which he lived and provided for his mother and two younger siblings, Lemuel and Lillie Ann. Many youths in the neighborhood both respected Bob and feared getting into trouble with “that tall policeman with the deep voice and funny-looking eyes”.

Bob and Lola E. McNeil met when he helped her as a bank teller before he joined the police department. They were married in 1962. Two daughters, Linda Elaine and Lisa Eleanor were born of the marriage. He continued to provide for his mother & siblings in addition to his own family. He went back to college part time while his children were in school and earned a bachelor’s degree in Political Science from City University in 1977 and a Master’s Degree in Public Administration from Long Island University shortly thereafter. With the advanced degree, he was promoted to the rank of Sargeant. He retired after more than 20 years of service.

Bob married Ivette Malave in May 1987. Two children, Marisa Danielle and Robert Christopher were born of the marriage. He continued to devote his efforts to protecting his family and to provide the resources his children needed to be successful. He was a blessing to many, and he was loved.

He leaves to celebrate his legacy: Daughters, Linda Elaine Piechota (Kris), Lisa Eleanor Suggs (Al), Marisa Danielle Miller (Jonathan); Son, Robert Christopher Harriston (Katie); granddaughters, Ciara Suggs, Nora Harriston; Lola E. Harriston, Ivette Harriston; sister, Lillie Ann Shelton (Paul); nieces Kyra Kay, Taleta Ann, Mikaela Lian; nephews Ian Edward, Sean Lemuel.

A graveside service will be held Friday July 17th at 10 AM at Westhampton Memorial Park on Patterson Ave. in Richmond.