The Rev. John D. Harrison

Rector

July 7 1969 - The Assistant Rector, in Upland, CA The Rev. John D. Harrison, was called to serve as Associate Rector starting October 1 and to succeed Father Brownlee in October 1970.

Father Harrison was born in Davenport, IA May 19,1912, the son of Will H. Harrison and Mary Elizabeth Given. He was graduated from Northwestern University and California Divinity School of the Pacific. He married April 18,1942 Elisabeth Cummings Richardson.

From Father Harrison's report to the Parish at St. Margaret's  tenth Annual Meeting "The present Rector of St. Margaret's  was called as assistant in the parish to help establish some new church congregations along the Colorado River across from Needles, California in Arizona. Six months was spent with full time coverage of this area by either Father Harrison or Father Brownlee As a result of the work, three new congregations were established at Bullhead City, Arizona, Lake Havasu City, Arizona and Parker, Arizona."

December 12, 1977 -  Father Harrison announced his retirement as of June 30,1978.

July 25, 1978 - A farewell dinner in honor of the Harrisons was well attended at the Shadow Mountain Club.

He now lives in San Diego where he works calling on the sick. They have two sons and grandchildren.

October 1980 Vernon Barton unveiled his portrait of Father Harrison which now hangs in the hallway next to Firestone Chapel.

May 1994 - In Memoriam - The Rev. John Harrison, rector of this parish from 1970-1978, died on May 15 after a long illness. A memorial service was held May 18 in the St. Margaret's  Chapel. Fr. Harrison and his wife, Betty, were key figures in the growth of this parish. He is also remembered as a wonderful pastor and priest. After his retirement, the Harrisons returned to the San Diego area where Fr. John continued to serve by visiting those in the hospitals and nursing homes. His dedication is a wonderful example of truly living the "Love of God".

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