David Wilson Harrison

David W. Harrison passed away on May 5, 2024, at his home in Otto, NC.  He was born to Wilson Davis and Mae Rimel Harrison on January 21, 1950, in Harrisonburg, VA where he spent most of his life.  He graduated from Harrisonburg High School in 1968 and majored in Civil Engineering at Clemson University in Clemson, SC where he graduated in 1972.

David will be missed by his wife of 50 years, Gail Simmons Harrison.  He is also survived by his son Jonathan Harrison and daughter Julie Harrison. Jonathan resides in Bridgewater, VA with his wife Gwynn and their two sons William and Jake.  Julie resides in Otto, NC.  David is also survived by a sister, Sue Atkins, of Harrisonburg, VA and nephew and niece, Bryan Atkins of Bridgewater, VA and Melissa Atkins Sites of Edinburg, VA.

David began his career at Riddleberger Brothers in Harrisonburg and then spent a year working for Peter Kiewit Sons’ Co. on the Alaska Pipeline. Upon his return he became president of C.S. Mundy Quarries in Broadway, VA where he remained for 34 years.  After leaving the quarry, David went to work for good friend, Pat Racey, at Racey Engineering in Luray, VA.  He retired in 2020 after working part time at the Harrisonburg Auto Auction.

David served for 5 years on the Board of Directors for the National Stone Association and was also a member of the Virginia Stone Association.  He was a lifetime member of Hose Company #4 in Harrisonburg, where he served as Fire Chief and President, and he was active for several years in the Harrisonburg Rescue Squad.

David’s hobbies included cheering on the Clemson Tigers football team, watching Formula One car racing, and being a constant and proud presence in the lives of his children and grandchildren. He and Gail traveled through most of the United States and many foreign countries.  David enjoyed feeding backyard birds and he loved all animals, with a particular fondness for dogs.

A celebration of life will be held in Harrisonburg, with a future date to be announced.  Donations can be made to Hose Company No. 4, Inc. at 2654 Port Republic Rd., Harrisonburg, VA 22801 in honor and memory of David.

Online condolences can be left at www.bryantgrantfuneralhome.com

Bryant-Grant Funeral Home & Crematory is honored to serve the Harrison family.