Virgil Paul Harrison – March 1, 1943 ~ December 25, 2025

Virgil passed away very peacefully in the early hours of Christmas Day, on one of two of his favorite holidays, the 4th of July being the other. He had weeks worth of different 4th of July related shirts. He would decorate his scooter and drive it proudly in the Memorial and 4th of July parades in Galeton, PA. He served in the Vietnam Era, just as all his older brothers did. Thru ancestry Virgil was related to Leonard Harrison who founded Harrison valley and the Grand canyon.

He loved to fish, especially fly fishing, and loved to teach anyone who wanted to learn how to do either. His favorite place to fish was Pine Creek. He was a diehard fan of the Buffalo Bills and the Bodine Brothers, plus Denny Hamblin. His collection of Hess Trucks includes the very first one made to the latest. He was like a little kid when he received a new one and had it out on display for everyone to see.

Virgil is survived by his son, Timmie P. (who took him fishing several times over the years and for his last season) and his son, Seth and fiancée, Emily Smith. His sister-in-law, Celesta Harrison and her children, Lafron, Patrick and Julia Ann Rider – who he played an important role in their lives growing up; as well as, Tina Rider – who he treated like his daughter. He showed their families his love of camping – which they loved to do.

Virgil leaves behind 4 generations of nieces and nephews, the morning coffee club at the Galeton Nittany, the Lancenese Family, The Upper Pine Creek Sportsmen Association Club (which he helped start with his buddy Fred), several friends he made in many years from his days at the formally known Kenshire Kampground and his dear friends, Janine and Bobby, who looked after him.

Virgil was predeceased by his parents, William and Ervilla (Paul) Harrison; all his siblings, Frank, Thomas, Mary Louise Jones, Robert, and Jimmy; plus one extra special fishing buddy, Austin Lancenese.

Per Virgil’s request for no calling hours and to be immediately laid to rest, his burial and graveside service was held December 29, 2025 at Phoenix Cemetery with Patrick Harrison doing the eulogy, along with only a few close family members and friends. A Celebration of Virgil’s Life will be held on April 11th from 12:00 – 5:00 PM at the Raymond Richar VFW Post 6611, Galeton, PA.