Gertrude Schwartz Harrison 97, of Tower City, passed away peacefully at her home on August 20, 2016 after a long and fulfilling life. 
 
Born June 14, 1919 to the late William H. and Virgie Minnich Schwartz.
 
Gertrude graduated from Schuylkill Haven High School and Pennsylvania State University, for which she was an active and enthusiastic supporter for over seventy years.  She taught at West Lawn schools, Wilson High School, Tower City, Porter Tower  and Williams Valley school systems.  She was an active member of  St. Paul's Lutheran Church, Tower City, teaching Sunday School and serving on the Church Council.  She also volunteered at the Tower City Library and as president of the Tower City Women's Club, in addition to being active with the Girl Scouts.
 
She was blessed with the capacity to love deeply and her family and friends reciprocated this love. Hers was a life of faith, family and service to her family and community. The success of this life is indicated by June 14, 2016 being name Gertrude Harrison Day in Tower City. Her fortitude in the face of difficulties was an inspiration to all who knew her.
 
She was preceded in death by her husband William T. Harrison as well as a son William T. Harrison II. Two brothers; Reynold and Stanley Schwartz.
 
Surviving are her daughter Donna Harrison (Gerald Emison), her son Douglas Harrison (Jennifer), six grandchildren; Abigail (Joseph) Emison, William Harrison, Shannon (Michael) Kempinski, Patrick Harrison, Steven Harrison and Colin Harrison. 3 great grandchildren; Grace, Seamus and Amelia Emison.
 
Visitation will be held Monday evening from 6-8 pm at St. Paul's Lutheran Church, Tower City.  Private graveside services will be held in St. John's Lutheran Cemetery, Friedensburg.  In lieu of flowers the family requests that donations be made to the St. Paul's Lutheran Church Educational Fund or the Tower City Library in Gertrude's memory. Dimon Funeral Home has been entrusted with the services.  To sign the guestbook visit www.dimonfuneralhome.com
 
 
 

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