Samuel Eugene Harrison

Samuel Eugene Harrison was born on November 21, 1946, in Stockton, California, to Anna Marie Hendrix. He was also lovingly raised by his grandmother, Rene, and his great-grandmother, whose care and guidance helped shape the strong, kind, and devoted man he became. Samuel passed away peacefully at home on February 13, 2026, surrounded by love.

Samuel was a proud Stockton native and graduated from Edison High School in 1964. In 1996, he moved to Lodi, where he continued to build a life rooted in family, faith, and community. From a young age, Samuel showed a deep passion for both music and sports. He played the French horn with the Stockton Police Bugle Corps, later performing with the Stockton Commodores and the Caballeros, sharing his talent from his teenage years through early adulthood. In high school, he also played baseball and basketball—planting the seeds for a lifelong love of the game.

On June 1, 1974, Samuel married the love of his life, Sally. Together they shared 51 beautiful years of marriage—years filled with devotion, laughter, challenges, and unwavering partnership. Family was everything to Samuel. He was a proud,  loving father and survived by his six children: Russell Harrison, Koranella (Steve) Barefield, Damion Harrison, Sean (Sina) Harrison, Candice Harrison and Christian Harrison. He cherished his fourteen grandchildren: Greg Harrison, Adrian (Katrina) Harrison, Quincy (Angel) Harrison, Korina (David) Pailin, Kendrick Barefield, Cecilia Harrison, Jaelyn Harrison, Zoe Harrison, Iliana Harrison, Ariana Harrison, Tatiana Harrison, Raymond (Vannyda) Perez, Gabriella Brown, Dominic Brown and Victoria (Jorge) Mata.  His heart grew even fuller with his great-grandchildren: Sienna Harrison, Brycen Harrison, Zaiden Harrison, Mailani Barefield, and Levi Perez. Samuel was also honored to be the godfather to Leah Sapp and Michelle Thomas.

Samuel was a hardworking man who took pride in providing for his family. He dedicated 21 years to Pacific Gas and Electric Company, nine years to Comcast, and spent 20 years serving as a camp security guard at Tokay—roles he carried out with integrity and dependability.

Basketball, however, was where Samuel’s heart truly shined. He coached for over 40 years, beginning with CYO and continuing through the high school level. To many, he was more than a coach—he was a mentor, a father figure, a teacher, and a source of constant encouragement. He believed in his players, often before they believed in themselves. Whether on or off the court, Samuel changed lives through his patience, discipline, humor, and genuine care for others. His impact will be felt for generations.

Above all else, Samuel will be remembered as a loving husband, a devoted father, a proud grandfather, an inspiring coach, and a man who showed up for the people he loved. His presence filled rooms, his guidance shaped lives, and his love leaves a legacy that will never fade.

Samuel Eugene Harrison will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all who were blessed to know him.

Services will be held on March 21 at 11:00 a.m. at St. George’s Church, followed by a Celebration of Life at the American Legion Hall.

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