Philippa Cynthia (McNeill) Harrison

It is with great sadness the family of Philippa Cynthia Harrison announces her passing. She entered into eternal rest at her home in Carrboro, NC on Tuesday, September 27, 2022. Philippa was born November 2, 1941, in Durham, NC, the daughter of Philip and Rubye Evans (McNeill)

She graduated from Hillside High School in Durham, NC at the age of 15 years old. Received her Bachelor of Arts Degree in English and a Minor in Library Science from North Carolina College at Durham May 31, 1964. After college, she worked as a librarian in the Durham and Wake County public school system. She later moved to the Washington, D.C., Maryland area working as a Research Librarian at the Library of Congress and Head Administator for Crossland High School library in Temple Hill, Maryland. She received a Master of Arts in Library Science Degree with honors in 1971 from the University Of Maryland at College Park.

Upon her return to Durham, she married Lemuel Harrison, and from that union, came a beautiful daughter. She later moved to Carrboro, N.C where she worked as a Media Specialist at Chapel Hill High School for several summers.and returned to the classroom to teach when needed 

She was a fiercely dedicated loving mother, sister, daughter and friend. She enjoyed a good book and you'd get to see that pretty smile of hers as she couldn't wait to share it and tell you where to get it from if she thought you would like it, and it would inspire you She was fearless, and protected those she loved and she loved her family, her students and friends.

Philippa was an intelligent, smart, kindhearted giving soul. Her high moral compass never waivered throughout her career and for the rest of her days. She was always one of the student's favorites.

She was committed not only to the culture she was born into, which came from her mother and father; She also wanted the best for all and was willing to put her life on the line for it to be achieved. She taught with her words and deeds.

As a member of The Friends of the Carrboro Libraries, along with her daughter Renee who's also a member, was excited to give her expert input in working towards the establishment of a free standing, full service library serving the residents of her community. She also was a vocal participant and advisor for Parent Support Groups locally on behalf of bettering the lives of their children and others being challenged with Down Syndrome and Autism, as well as those with a rare combination of both.

She is survived by her daughter Renee Joan Harrison of Carrboro, NC, her sister Laura (McNeill) Tally of Wilmington, NC, and other family and friends.

Those who wish to remember Philippa in a special way, you may make gifts in her memory to:

The Friends of the Carrboro Libraries

Contact: Ms. Nerys Levy

Rilevy@mindspring.com

The National Association for Down Syndrome

Contact: info@nads.org

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