Jackie "Jack" Dale Harrison

Jackie “Jack” Dale Harrison Jack enjoyed an incredibly full life – he traveled the world, discovered countless passions, and created an extraordinary family. Above all, he married the love of his life and was able to share 65 years with her before he passed away on December 24, 2021. Jack was born on November 18, 1937, in Checotah, Oklahoma. He was the seventh child of Lala and Virgil Harrison. As the baby of the family, he was known as “spoiled baby Jack” to his siblings, a fact that was shared in countless stories throughout his life. Jack’s father was tragically killed in an auto accident in 1939 and at seven years old, his family moved to Muskogee. Jack attended Whittier and Washington Elementary Schools, Alice Robertson Junior High School, and Central High School. While attending Muskogee High School, Jack met the love of his life, Barbara Howdeshell. Barbara first noticed Jack when he walked into class with a black eye (a consequence of picking a fight with Oklahoma State wrestlers). Jack and Barbara were later setup on a “blind date” and instantly knew it was love at first sight. They were young, in love, and later referred to themselves as “dumb and dumber”. They were married shortly after graduation and celebrated their 65th wedding anniversary on November 17, 2021. Jack was passionate about serving his country; he joined the National Guard at the ripe age of 15 (fibbing about his age) and one year later, he enlisted in the United States Navy. He served in the Navy for four years (most of this time was spent on the aircraft carrier, USS Lake Champlain) before being honorably discharged. He would later continue his passion for the military by creating replica war weapons, patches, apparel, and art. Upon his discharge from the Navy, Jack and Barbara settled in Muskogee where they lived until 2018. He completed his associates degree at Connors College while also working and helping to raise his two children, Vickie and Doug. Jack was an executive with Sunco Manufacturing and later the President & Partner of Store Fronts Incorporated. He was not only an astute businessman, but also a Jack-of-all-trades with an entrepreneurial spirit. Once he sold Store Fronts, he owned a variety of businesses and explored many interests including race horses, cars, jewelry, leatherwork, and art. He had the most curious mind and he loved to spend his time telling stories (some true, some fabricated) and giving advice to those he loved. He also enjoyed playing penny slots, staying in touch with friends (as well as “googling things”) on Facebook, trading cars, and watching Fox News (much to the chagrin of Barbara). Jack is survived by his wife, Barbara Harrison; children, Vickie Parker (Ted Leovich) and Doug Harrison (Missy); grandchildren, Brett Parker (Kaitlin) and Katie Murphy (Ladd); and great grandchildren, Ryder James Parker, Case Gibson Parker, Jack Archer Murphy, and Renner Harrison Parker. Jack is also survived by his older brother, Max Harrison; brothers-in-law, Lloyd Hunt and Lindell Howdeshell (Olga); as well as many nieces, nephews, and friends that are just like family. He was preceded in death by his parents, Lala and Virgil Harrison; stepfather, Earl Olmstead; brothers, Burl Harrison (Joan), Billy Harrison (Kay); sisters, Nadine Hardin (Dick), and Gloria Hunt; brothers-in-law, Leonard Howdeshell (Darlene), Tommie Howdeshell (Lenora); and sister-in-law, Euna Harrison. Cremation services provided by Cornerstone Funeral Home, 1830 N York St, Muskogee, OK. Condolences can be made to the family at www.cornerstoneofmuskogee.com.

Jackie "Jack" Dale Harrison

November 18, 1937 - December 24, 2021