Obituary of Anna Ruth Harrison

Anna Ruth Harrison, affectionately known as Pee-Wee to her siblings, was born on October 10, 1944, in Camden, NJ, to Anna and Edward Benson, both of whom preceded her in death. Surrounded by her loved ones, Anna peacefully transitioned on March 19, 2024. Anna was a deeply spiritual individual and an active member of Kaighn Avenue Baptist Church until her health declined. Despite battling breast cancer and heart disease, she faced these challenges with courage and determination. Raised in the Camden School system, Anna, as the oldest of 13 children, played a significant role in contributing to household responsibilities and helping raise her siblings. In 1967, Anna married Leonard F. Harrison Jr. in Camden, NJ. Their union brought forth two children, Leonard F. Harrison 3rd and Crystal D. Harrison-Arthur, completing their family. Due to Leonard Jr.'s military service, the family traveled extensively, creating cherished memories together. Upon returning to Camden, Anna dedicated herself to raising her children and embarked on a 29-year career at Crescent Lighting of Barrington. Following her retirement, she spent a few years working at Kennedy Hospital in Washington Township, contributing her time to the housekeeping department. Throughout her years at Crescent Lighting, Anna formed enduring friendships, particularly with Carrie Ferby and Eartha Johnson. Anna and Carrie, becoming next-door neighbors in 1997, spent countless hours enjoying each other's company, sharing laughter, and creating lasting memories. Anna's greatest joy lay in her family. She adored her children, grandchildren, daughter-in-law, and son-in-law. Her home was a gathering place for loved ones, especially during Thanksgiving, where her renowned banana pudding and turkey stuffing were eagerly anticipated. She had a talent for baking specialty cakes, which she lovingly gave as birthday gifts. In her leisure time, Anna found solace in knitting, solving crossword and jigsaw puzzles, and indulging in her passion for shopping at Ross, Boscov’s, and JC Penney's. She often enlisted her daughters and her sisters Sarah and Sophia for shopping trips to the Berlin Mart or Estate Sales. Anna's love for music was evident, especially when she danced joyfully to "Jazzy Lady" by Richard Fields. Anna was preceded in death by her siblings, Jerome Benson, Gail Benson, Artie Benson (Pat), Marion Benson, and Sarah Benson. She is survived by her children Leonard F. Harrison 3rd (Rachelle) and Crystal Arthur (Wyman), her grandchildren Dante’, Alana, Camille, and Kendall, as well as siblings Clarence Benson (Carol), Jeffrey Benson, Bruce Benson, Earl Benson (Toni), Keith Benson, Mark Benson, Sophia Benson, and a host of nieces and nephews. Anna will be remembered for her unwavering love, strength, and kindness. Her legacy lives on in the hearts of those who were fortunate to know her.