Monroe Alvin Harrison's Obituary
Monroe Alvin Harrison, 91, of Fayetteville, AR, passed away on September 16, 2025, surrounded by loved ones. Born on July 25, 1934, in Wattensaw, AR, Monroe was the beloved son of Alvin Talley Harrison and Vesta Irene Long Harrison. He is survived by his wife of 69 years, Patricia Ann Robins Harrison.
Monroe is also survived by his three sons, Phillip Robins Harrison and his husband Michael of Beckley, WV, David Monroe Harrison and his wife Katy of Fayetteville, Scott Patrick Harrison and his wife Laurie of Fayetteville; 6 grandchildren Hayden Harrison, Drake Harrison (Kerrie), Mary Kate Harrison Caviness (Perry), Beth Anne Harrison Jones (Adam), Hayes Harrison and Hunter Harrison; and one great-grandson Harrison Grant Jones.
Monroe grew up in Conway graduating from Conway High School along with his wife, Patricia where they then entered Arkansas State Teacher’s College (UCA) before he joined the United States Navy and served 2 years active duty on the U.S.S. Hornet. Upon returning to ASTC, Monroe and Patricia married and they both, upon graduation, became educators.
Monroe continued his career as a junior high and high school coach with stops in Wynne and Benton before moving to Fayetteville and accepting various positions with the University of Arkansas. In 1986, he accepted the position of Director of Student Housing at the University of Mississippi and retired back to Fayetteville thereafter where he and Patricia remained.
Monroe will be remembered for his love of family, sense of humor, passion for the University of Arkansas, and service to others through civic, military and church avenues. During his tenure as Ticket Office Manager for the Razorbacks, Monroe joked that he became one of the most popular people in the State of Arkansas – sharing that acquaintances from his entire life would reach out to him asking for favors.
Monroe’s commitment to service extended far beyond his service in the United States Army Reserve, where he retired as a Lieutenant Colonel after 22 years. Deeply dedicated to his community, he served as president of multiple organizations including the Fayetteville Youth Center and Boys Club, the Fayetteville Lions Club, and both the Woodland Junior High and Fayetteville High School Booster Clubs. His leadership also touched civic life as a member of the Parks and Recreation Advisory Board, chair of the Fayetteville Community Development Street Committee, and campaign chairman for the Fayetteville United Fund in 1983. At Central United Methodist Church, Monroe gave faithfully as chairman of the Board of Trustees and as church school superintendent. A proud Razorback, he was a devoted member of the Arkansas Alumni Association and part of the honored 2017 Razorback Family of the Year at the University of Arkansas. Recognized for his generosity and leadership, he received the “Service of Mankind” Award from the Fayetteville Sertoma Club and was honored as a voting member of the Arkansas Sports Hall of Fame.
Family was most important to Monroe, and he loved his connection to his children, grandchildren, great grandson, nieces, and nephews. The family wishes to express special thanks to Ciel Assisted Living Community of Fayetteville and the staff for their kindness and loving care.
Funeral services were held on September 19 at Moore’s Chapel in Fayetteville.
In remembrance of Monroe’s lifelong love for the University of Arkansas and his dedication to its alumni community, memorial donations may be made to the Arkansas Alumni Association at www.arkansasalumni.org/give This tribute not only honors his enduring Razorback spirit but also continues his legacy of service and connection.
To sign the online guest book please visit www.bernafuneralhomes.com
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