Alan Richard Harrison

It is with heavy hearts that the family of Alan Richard Harrison share the news of his unexpected passing at his home in Northern Virginia shortly after Christmas. 

Richard devoted much of his career to the accounting fields, where he held positions at various firms in the Washington DC area. Notably, he served as the Treasurer and Director of Finance at the Center for Applied Linguistics, a role he held with dedication until his retirement. His educational journey was marked by significant achievements; he graduated from Annandale High School, proudly attended The College of William and Mary, where he received a B.S. in Biology and Accounting.  He later earned an M.B.A. in Finance from George Washington University. He also became a Certified Public Accountant in Virginia in 1978.

In his leisure time, Richard embraced a variety of hobbies that reflected his multifaceted interests and intellect. He found joy in tennis, hiking, canoeing and reading science fiction. He often encouraged his sisters to join him on the court. He also had a passion for woodworking, a self taught avid wood worker, who transformed his basement into a workshop where he proudly crafted kitchen cabinet doors and many other woodworking pieces and furniture. The thoughtful beautiful woodwork pieces he designed and created remain as some of our cherished keepsakes.

Richard had a profound love for animals, often sharing his life with many devoted canine companions, including several Belgian Sheepdogs and his last beloved dog, Carey. Richard could often be found at the dog park where he had many good friends. Richard was a man of great compassion whose warmth, kindness, and wisdom touched the lives of all who knew him.  He was known for his ability to listen while providing calmness to those around him.  As we remember Richard we celebrate a man who had great humor.  We loved his joking manner and we will always remember his smile and laugh.   His legacy of compassion will continue to shine brightly through the lives he touched.  He will be deeply missed but fondly remembered by all who had the privilege to know him.   

Richard is survived by his devoted sisters, Elizabeth Spivey (Michael) of Afton, VA, and Marguerite Pickering (Craig) of Charlottesville, VA, as well as his sister-in-law, Wesley Harrison of Oakton, VA. He is also remembered by many nieces, nephews, grandnieces, grandnephews, and many cousins, all of whom will carry his memory in their hearts.

He was predeceased by his parents, Marguerite and Donald R. Harrison of St. Augustine, FL, his older brother and best friend, Donald M. Harrison, and a nephew, Ross B. Pickering.

As we commemorate the life of Alan Richard Harrison, we celebrate his legacy of compassion, steadfastness, and humor that will continue to shine brightly through the lives he touched. He will be deeply missed but fondly remembered by all who had the privilege to know him.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to your favorite animal charity.  A private service will be scheduled at a later date.