WILLIAM JAY HARRISON

May 12, 1939 - December 23, 2020

William Jay Harrison was born in Wichita, Kanas, on May 12, 1939, to the late William Harley and Roberta Harrison. Bill passed away on December 23, 2020, with his family by his side after a long battle with Alzheimer's.

At the age of 5, the family moved from Wichita to Dustin Acres. Bill attended school in Dustin Acers and graduated from Taft High School in 1958 (Go Wildcats!). He was a great athlete and excelled at baseball. Bill played minor league baseball for the Los Angeles Dodgers. Bill also played triple-A ball and travel ball in Bakersfield for many years until he retired at age 42.

In 1963, Bill met the love of his life, Janice Jackson Saso. They were married three months later on December 23, 1963. Bill became the father of Janice's two sons, Michael and Daniel Saso. Bill and Janice also had two daughters together, Karen and Melinda Harrison.

Bill was a highly skilled and valued employee of many different jobs. Most notable was Bill's 30-year career at Bernard & Sons. Bill eventually retired from Bernard & Sons in 2001. Shortly after, Bill and Janice bought a truck, a fifth-wheel trailer, and began traveling the U.S. together. They also embarked on many cruises together. Their Mediterranean Sea cruise was the most memorable. Bill and Janice loved traveling together, seeing beautiful sites, and being with friends.

Bill had many different passions that all involved his family like going to sporting events, and school plays. Bill was involved in his community in many different ways. He served the role of 4-H leader for 25 years and used this opportunity to influenced other children as well as his own. Additionally, Bill was a member of RiverLakes Church since 1975, and also a member of the Bakersfield Elks Lodge for 14 years.

He is preceded in his passing by his parents, his two sisters, Janine Evertse and Kay Ford, and his brother, Larry Harrison. He is survived by his wife of 57 years, Janice, their two sons, Michael (Tammy) Saso and Danny (Kristie) Saso, two daughters, Karen (James) Albert and Melinda Harrison, 8 grandchildren, and 9 great-grandchildren.

The entire family would like to thank the Adult Day Care Services for Alzheimer's (ADAKC), the loving care of The Park Senior Assistant Living, and Hoffmann Hospice, for all the care and support you gave Bill. Services will be held at a later date.