Joan Harrison

Joan Andrews Harrison, age 91, passed away in Davis, CA, October 28, 2021 with her children at her side. Joan was born in St. Joseph, MO in 1930 to Robert and Pauline Symon. She graduated from Stanford University and Stanford Law School and practiced law for 60 years in Santa Clara County. Joan lived most of her adult life in Gilroy CA where she and her husband Richard Harrison shared a law office and raised their family.

Joan loved her community. She served as counsel to Gilroy Unified School District and Gilroy Presbyterian Church, volunteered with numerous organizations including the Theater Angels Art League, American Association of University Women, Campfire Girls, Gilroy Presbyterian Church, Santa Clara County Bar Association, Gilroy Unified Schools, Gilroy Garlic Festival Association and as chair of Santa Clara County Planning Commission. Joan also served on the Resident Council at her Davis retirement community. She was a championship tennis player, competing at the U.S. Open as a teenager and playing tennis throughout her adult life. Joan's energy for life and fierce devotion to her family, friends and community will be deeply missed. She was indomitable to the end.

Joan is survived by daughter Lois (Cari Michaels), son David (Astrid Henry), grandsons Simon and Bennett Harrison-Michaels, niece and nephews Laura Symon Browne (Tim Browne, Griffin and Teagan Browne) Scot Symon (Brady Symon) and Duncan Renfrow-Symon. Joan was predeceased by husband Richard and brother Jon Symon.

A celebration of Joan's life will be in the spring. Donations preferred to the Gilroy Foundation, Friends of the Gilroy Library or donor's choice in her memory.