Leland Allen Harrs

Leland Allen Harrs, Jr., 88, of Arlington, Virginia, passed away peacefully on May 10, 2025. A beloved father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, Leland, “Al,” (or "Big Al" to those closest to him) will always be remembered as a sweet and lovable man. Al was known for his quick, wry smile and love of a good laugh, even when at his own expense. Al adored his late wife, Sally, his children, grandchildren, and most recently, his growing group of great-grandchildren.

Born on October 6, 1936, in Chicago, Al was the eldest of two sons (brother Richard) of Leland Harrs and Louise Siebert Harrs. Al was a diligent and high-performing student. He graduated from Northwestern University and subsequently earned an M.B.A. at New York University.

On April 8, 1961, Al married the love of his life, Sarah “Sally” Jane Finnegan. They began their marriage of 64 years in Washington D.C. before returning to Chicago. They moved to Queens, New York in 1968 and raised their three children.

Al began his career as a U.S. Navy officer and worked at the Pentagon as an intelligence analyst. Following his Navy service, he worked most of his career in commercial real estate finance, for both Mutual of New York and ULLICO. In 1983, he moved the family home to Arlington, Virginia, following ULLICO’s relocation to Washington, DC. Al was instrumental in the site selection and construction of ULLICO’s first owned headquarters.

Al enjoyed his retirement, spending most of his time happily maintaining the grounds of his beloved home, known as Scraggly Oak Knoll. His favorite exercise was water aerobics, which he enjoyed for many years.

Al was a lover of good food and fine wine. He enjoyed trips abroad with his family for wine tasting and touring. He became a “Knight” in the Brotherhood of the Knights of the Vine and a longstanding member of the International Wine and Food Society. Few things made Al happier than Sally’s cooking and a nice glass of chardonnay.

Al is survived by his three children: Andrew; Katherine Morrison; and Leland, and their spouses: Marian; Timothy; and Kathleen, respectively. He is also survived by 8 grandchildren: Andrew Harrs; Sarah Boys; Stephen Harrs; Brian Harrs; Christopher Morrison; Leland Morrison; Emma Harrs; Henry Harrs; and three great-grandchildren: Peyton Harrs; Jeanette Boys; and Evelyn Boys. His beloved wife, Sally, passed away recently on March 17, 2025.

Interment for Al and his late wife, Sally, will be held at Arlington National Cemetery at a future date.