Bealie James Harrison, 94 of Grove Hill, AL. died May 21, 2016 at Fellowship Home in Valdosta, GA. He was born in Grove Hill on December 9, 1921. He was the son of Levi and Bessie Walton Harrison and lived on the family farm his whole life except for his military service. He served his country in World War II as a sergeant in the US Army as a radio operator in the 100th Infantry Division in France and Germany. He proudly served his country and was thankful to return safely to his home where he married his community sweetheart, Willie Mae White. Bealie worked as a farmer, carpenter, and community leader and later in life answered God’s calling to the ministry where he pastored and ministered for 40 years. In all he undertook, Willie Mae was content to help him. They loved serving in the Chilton Church and community. He was a leader in the Clarke County Cattlemen Association, Farm Bureau, Chairman of the ASCS Committee, and earned recognition for his stewardship of his family land. These included Helene Mosley Memorial Forestry Award, 1982 Southern Tree Farmer of the Year. In each forestry tour, interwoven in this talk was a testimony of his relationship with the Lord. Along with his love of family, Lord, and land came his legacy of singing. He sang for many years with his brothers and sisters on the Jackson Radio Sunday morning program. Singing continues to be a highlight of family reunions.

Survivors include his wife of 69 years, Willie Mae Harrison, daughter, Ann (Jimmy) Whatley, Valdosta, GA, son Eric (Sonya) Harrison, Mobile, daughter-in-law, Cheryl H. Wright, Grove Hill. Grandchildren; Rita H. Williams, Arkansas, Keith (Mike Dorris) Harrison, Birmingham, Darla H. (Chris) Burbank, Birmingham, Wendy W. (Francois) Fineberg, Dadeville, Wesley Whatley, New York City, Jennifer Harrison, Lance Harrison, Mobile; five great grandchildren; sister, Leona H. Hutto, numerous beloved nephews and nieces.

He was preceded in death by three children, Rita, Rebecca, and Eddie Harrison, parents, beloved brothers and sisters.

Funeral services will be held Thursday, May 26, 2016 with viewing at 12:30 and funeral at 2:00 pm in the chapel of O’Bryant Chapel Funeral Home, Thomasville, AL. Burial will follow in the Smith Cemetery in Chilton, Rev. Leon Harrison will officiate. The family will receive friends before the service.

In lieu of flowers, the family request that contributions be made to Chilton Baptist Church, 6365 Chilton Road, Grove Hill, AL 36451.

Arrangements by O’Bryant Chapel Funeral Home in Thomasville, AL

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