John Michael Harrison

He was the beloved husband of 52 years to Marilyn Braun Harrison who passed in 2016, father of Kathy (Mike) Dannholz of Springfield and Melissa (Eric) Morton of Richmond, and grandfather of Ben, Harrison, and Addie.

Mike was born in Alexandria and graduated from St. John’s College High School in Washington DC, class of 1957, and Pennsylvania Military College in Chester, PA, class of 1961. After graduation, he began his lifelong career as an auto parts sales representative in the DC and southern Maryland areas until his retirement in the mid 2000’s. He loved spending time at his cherished family beach home in Sanderling, NC, on the Outer Banks, where he enjoyed fishing on the beach, boat rides with his grandchildren, and evening sunsets on the pier overlooking the Currituck Sound. Mike was an avid Washington Redskins fan, enjoyed a Jack and Coke, and was always willing to tell you about the history of the Commonwealth of Virginia or his time at PMC. He was known to have a well-stocked bar and often carried miniatures to hand out to friends and co-workers who might need a “short one” during his visit.

Mike was most happy with his trumpet in-hand. He learned the instrument as a child and maintained that passion for more than 75 years. He played in the band in high school and college, and he served as a member of the St. Bernadette Catholic Church Contemporary Choir for more than 40 years, where he made lasting friendships with parishioners who shared his love of music. Mike was famous for his performances during family celebrations over the years. His renditions of “Hail to the Redskins” and “Carry Me Back to Ole Virginny” were especially memorable.

The family would like to offer special thanks to the staff of Paul Springs Retirement Community in Alexandria. Mike lived there surrounded by good friends and caring staff for the last seven years. The Capital Caring Hospice staff also played a significant role in providing him with comfort in his final months.

A visitation with family will be held on Friday, September 11 at 11:00 am at St. Bernadette Catholic Church, Springfield, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at noon.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations in Mike’s memory be made to the Duck Volunteer Fire Department, 1259 Duck Road, Duck, NC, 27949.