Mary Harrison ‘72

At St. Margaret's School, we knew her as Mary Harrison, a member of the Class of 1972.  So when we heard of her passing this week, we were saddened.  But it came as no surprise to learn that she died holding the hands of her siblings and embraced in prayers and all the wonderful memories in the life of Mary Harrison.

Mary Harrison, 1970

On July 28, 1953, Mary was born in Richmond, attended St. Catherine's School, and graduated from St. Margaret's School, where she met lifelong friends. She then graduated from the University of Virginia in 1976 with a B.S. in Nursing, working at UVA. Hospital. Later, during a year-long sabbatical crewing in the Caribbean for Windjammer Cruises, she confirmed her ambition to attend medical school. Mary graduated from the Medical College of Virginia at VCU in 1985 and completed her residency in pediatrics at Vanderbilt University Medical Center before returning to Richmond to practice pediatrics for 25 years.

A devoted Episcopalian, Mary was committed to leaving the world better than she found it. As a beloved pediatrician, she believed that all children deserved exceptional medical care no matter their means or health condition. She cared for patients holistically in her Richmond practice, supporting them (and their parents) through tough times and championing their personal successes and unique chosen paths. Guided by her faith, she also used her medical skills to help sick children on mission trips to Sudan and Haiti. And wherever she went, she was an avid recycler who taught people how to do their part to help the environment.

She lived out her faith by committing to healing the earth, supporting social justice issues, and helping children in Richmond and around the world.

A memorial service will be held at St. James's Episcopal Church, 1205 West Franklin Street, Richmond, VA. on Friday, October 1, 2021 at 11 a.m.