Mr. John Waller “Bitsy” Harrison, 80, died Oct. 29, 2021, at his home on the Eastern Shore of Virginia. Husband of Terry G. Swain and the late Sarah T. Harrison, he is also survived by stepdaughters, Farah Van Genderen Bender (Patrick) and Melissa Swain Hicks; step-grandchildren, Zachary Van Genderen (Alexis), Dustin Hicks, and Aislyn Van Genderen; a step-great-granddaughter; and his brother, Arthur W. Harrison Jr. (Lesley Daly). Bitsy had many devoted friends, some lifelong.
He was predeceased by his parents, Arthur W. Harrison Sr. and Katherine Wilber Harrison; and step-grandson, Ian Van Genderen.
Born in Roanoke, Va., Bitsy grew up in Richmond, where he was a well-known tennis player and all-around athlete. He was proud to display the Thalhimer Trophy, which he was allowed to keep having won that tennis tournament three times in a row. He achieved a rank of 18th in the country before retiring to attend UVA law school. He was a partner with McGuire Woods, litigating and consulting in important cases all over the United States. A few years after retiring, he moved to Stingray Point, where he was able to enjoy the water view and bird watching, his favorite pastimes.
At his request, there will be no services.
