Michigan State University College of Law professor emeritus and former dean Jeremy Harrison died April 16 in Okemos at the age of 80.
A San Francisco native, Harrison earned law degrees from the University of San Francisco and Harvard University and worked in legal education for more than 50 years.
He served as dean of two law schools, Michigan State University College of Law and the University of Hawaii Richardson School of Law, and taught at law schools around the world, including Michigan State University, the University of Hawaii, the University of San Francisco, Gadjah Mada University, Haile Sellassie I University, and the University of Ife.
"Jeremy Harrison was a soft-spoken dean who took on a large task with assurance and confidence," said Professor David Favre.
"Dean Harrison joined the Detroit College of Law as it was in physical and institutional transition from downtown Detroit to the Michigan State University campus in East Lansing. He always had a positive attitude and was respected by all for his foresight and fairness.
"After making a significant contribution to the growth and transformation of the Law College in the role of Dean he stepped down to rejoin our teaching world, continuing with his positive attitude in the classroom.
"We remember him as an individual, a friend to talk with. We remember his smiles in the hallways, as well as his leadership of the College at a time of great need."
Harrison is survived by his second wife, Laura Ellen Marrack Harrison; 12 children: 28 grandchildren, and two brothers. He was predeceased by his first wife, Roseanne and two brothers.
Published: Fri, May 13, 2016
