Vanda Harrison

Vanda Lee Harrison, 82 of Sherwood went to heaven on Thursday, February 13, 2020. She is survived by her children, Robbie Dillon, Susan Murray (Marlon), Jana King, Robert “Thomas” Harrison, Jr. and Tim Harrison (Nina); nine grandchildren, Stephen Dillon, Jr., Jeremy Murray, Jeffery Murray, Whitney Tappan (Trent), Channing Emerson (Daniel), Maitlyn Harrison, Scott Harrison, Caleb Harrison and Luke Harrison; four great-grandchildren, Nathan Murray, Leah Emerson, Lydia Tappan, Julianne Tappan and soon-to-be number five, Reed Emerson. She was preceded in death by her husband, Robert Thomas Harrison, Sr.; parents, Rawl and Jewell Bailey; brothers, Calvin and Bill Bailey; and son-in-law, Stephen “Rusty” Dillon.

Mom was a lifelong member and Associate Pastor's wife of Northside Pentecostal Church. Mom worked professionally and retired from Southwestern Bell Telephone Company. Together, Dad and Mom established and managed a successful family-owned real estate business, R & V Realty.

Mom taught by example in showing the world how a Godly, Christian lady should conduct herself in every area of life. As a wife, she taught us how to love and honor our spouse and how to fulfill each and every vow we made before God. As a mother, she taught us how to love and protect our children, how to teach them in the ways of the Lord, and how to make provision to ensure every child was given the necessary tools and opportunities to be successful in life. She always reassured us there was no goal too high or trial too difficult when we look to God as our source for help. Mom purposely desired and strived to instill this same confidence into each of her children and grandchildren. She wanted us to know and understand every word in the Bible is true, and the promises of God are forever steadfast; therefore, in whatever situation we face, we can look to him and be reminded of his written Holy Word: "With God all things are possible." (Matthew 19:26).  As a friend, she taught us how to listen to others, how to pray with and for those in need, and how important it is to always be readily available to help someone, and to be there for one another. She also taught us there is no distance between us too far for those we love, and neither is there any length of time too long, between visits or telephone calls, that will lessen the depth of our love and closeness of true friendships. And lastly, for all the other roles and titles she carried, Mom taught us to love unconditionally, to look for the good in every situation, and to pray about everything.

Mom, you were the best, and we all are so very thankful for the heritage you and Dad have given to each of us.  Thank you for always being our shining light every time we faced overwhelming challenges, and for always being a beacon of hope when life's storms were so dark. We will forever love you and thank God for your life.

In Lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Northside Pentecostal Church c/o Rev. David Cypert, 1635 Chicot Drive, Conway, AR 72034; or Alzheimer’s Arkansas, 201 Markham Center Drive, Little Rock, AR 72205.

The visitation and funeral are at Smith-North Little Rock Funeral Home, 1921 Main Street. Visitation is 6:00-8:00 p.m. Monday, February 17, 2020.  Funeral will be held at 10:00 a.m. Tuesday, February 18, 2020.  Burial immediately following service at Griffin Leggett Rest Hills Memorial Park.