Obituary of Sherwin Paul Harrison
Pearl River, NY - Formerly of Liberty, NY
Sherwin Paul Harrison, a resident of Pearl River, New York, passed away peacefully at home, with his family by his side, on March 27, 2025. He was 96 years old. Sherwin was the son of Charles “Sol” and Pearl Wagner Harrison. Sherwin Harrison was born on December 25, 1928, in New York City.
Sherwin had a successful career in the hospitality trade that culminated in the development of his own business, Harrison Holidays. Working together with his beloved wife, Janice, the pair created packaged tours that included short excursions and multi-day trips to various US and foreign destinations.
Sherwin, a proud Korean War veteran, was a prolific storyteller who could charm and enchant anyone with tales and reminiscences from the annals of his life. He had a magic that granted him the ability to talk to anyone and get a response from even the most reticent chatter. He would be encouraged by friends to be a guest at a party so that the party would be anything but dull. He had a lightning-speed wit that brought mirth and laughter at every entrée opportunity. His personality brought him many incredible opportunities that are often reserved for those in elite positions.
Sherwin, most of all, was a man who cared about others, no matter their race, religion, creed, or socioeconomic status. He was the first to stand up for what is right and the first to acknowledge and advocate for those less fortunate or unable to care for themselves. When he saw someone in need, he did something about it.
Above all, Sherwin loved his family. He claimed that his wife and best friend, Janice, was the one who truly saved his life by giving him the beautiful life that they shared. They celebrated their 69th wedding anniversary on February 26, 2025. Sherwin was tremendously proud of his daughter, Andrea, and grandson, Ari, and loved them, in his words, “more than you could ever know”.
Sherwin was predeceased by his parents and his sisters Joan and Sandra Harrison. He leaves behind the love of his life, Janice; his daughter Andrea; his son Peter; and his grandchildren Ari, Emily, and Rachel.
He also leaves behind nephews, nieces, and a group of friends who will miss him forever.
Funeral services will be held on Sunday, March 30, 2025 at 11:00am at the Joseph N. Garlick Funeral Home, 388 Broadway, Monticello, NY 12701. Interment with full military honors will immediately follow at the Congregation Ahavath Israel Synagogue Cemetery, Hysana Road, Liberty, NY. The service will be live-streamed and can be viewed by clicking here.
Memorial contributions may be made, in his name, to the Simon Wiesenthal Center, The Southern Poverty Law Center, Disability Rights New York, or any organization that fights for fairness for all.
Arrangements are honorably entrusted to the Joseph N. Garlick Funeral Home - 845-794-7474 or www.josephngarlickfuneralhome.com.
