John J. Harrison

ALBANY- John Joseph Harrison, 81, passed away peacefully after a short illness on July 24,
2025, in Albany, New York, the city where he was born on March 28, 1944, and spent
most of his life.
John proudly served his country in the U.S. Army from 1967 to 1970 during the Vietnam
War. He earned two Bronze Stars for his service and courageously volunteered for a
second tour in hopes of sparing his brother from deployment—a testament to his deep
sense of duty and love for family.
Prior to his service, John earned a bachelor’s degree from Siena College. He went on to
work for the New York State Department of Health for three decades as an accountant,
specializing in reviewing Certificate of Need applications. Prior to that role, he worked at
HANYS, where he formed a lifelong friendship with Robert (Bob) Clement—one of many
enduring relationships that marked his life.
John was a devoted husband to Kathryn (Kathy) Conley Harrison for 52 years. Their
bond was unwavering; even in his final days, John's foremost concern was ensuring
Kathy knew where he was and that she would be cared for. Together they raised two
children: Cheryl Harrison Kearns and Brian Harrison, along with Brian’s wife Maura.
John also shared close ties with Kathy’s sister Margaret (Peg) DiPace and her children:
Christine (Nick) Jacobia, Chuck (Mickie) DiPace, Mike (Lisa) DiPace, Keith (Anne)
DiPace, and Kevin (Laurie) DiPace.
He was predeceased by his parents, John F. and Mary T. Harrison; his brother Stanley
C. Harrison; and sister-in-law Marilyn Blanner.
A passionate sports fan throughout his life, John found joy in cheering on the New York
Yankees and Giants, Notre Dame’s Fighting Irish—and most especially his beloved
Siena Saints basketball team. As a proud member of the Coaches Club, he rarely
missed a game or an away game bus trip. With sandwich in hand and trusty cooler by
his side, he traveled far and wide to support the Saints. One of his most cherished
memories was the road trip to Dayton to witness Siena defeat Ohio State—capped off
by a high five with Cheryl at the final buzzer.
John's warmth extended beyond immediate family; he maintained strong bonds with
nieces and nephews who knew him as both kind-hearted and steadfast. His legacy is
one of loyalty—to country, family, friends, and community as he served many years as
Usher at St Pius X Roman Catholic Church.
May John’s memory bring comfort to all who knew him and serve as a reminder of a life
lived with integrity, devotion, and heart.
His wake will be held at Daniel Keenan Funeral Home 490 Delaware Ave, Albany, Tuesday July 29, 2025 from 4 to 7 pm.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Wednesday July 30, 2025, at 10:00 AM at St
Pius X Church 23 Crumitie Road. Burial at Gerald B.H. Solomon Saratoga National Cemetery
will follow at 12:30.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Gary Sinise Foundation or a charity
supporting veterans of your choice. Online condolences may be offered at danielkeenanfuneralhome.com