William Hayes Harrison, age 81, of Stillwater, died Tuesday, September 10, 2024 in Stillwater surrounded by his family. A memorial service will begin at 2:00 p.m. Friday, September 27, 2024 at Stillwater First United Methodist Church. A graveside service will be at 10:00 a.m. Monday, September 30, 2024 in Kingfisher Cemetery. The family has requested those who attend the services to please wear orange in support of Bill and Oklahoma State University. Strode Funeral Home and Cremation is in charge of the arrangements.

Bill was born to George William and Maurine Rose (Hayes) Harrison January 6, 1943 in Enid, Oklahoma. He married Norma Gayle Daugherty on August 18, 1967 in Kingfisher, Oklahoma. Of this marriage, three daughters were born.

He graduated Kingfisher High School then attended Oklahoma State University. He earned a bachelor's degree in agricultural education and applied science. He taught agriculture for two years. He bought cattle for Wilson and Company for three years, and Cargill for thirty plus years.

During high school, Bill was very active in Future Farmers of America and loved showing sheep. He earned both his State and American Farmer degrees with an emphasis on public speaking. While attending Oklahoma State, Bill was involved in Block and Bridle, winning several showmanship awards during that time.

His favorite pastime was attending his grandchildren's endeavors with Norma, putting many miles on their enormous SUV.

Bill was also very active in his church and served on several committees. He went on mission trips and was very excited to be part of the Snack Sacks Program.

Bill loved all things OSU and only missed one football game in 56 years while living in three different states. Bill had season tickets to almost all cowboy and cowgirl sports.

Bill was a tremendous negotiator and did not hesitate to walk away if his offer was not accepted. He and his brother-in-law once went on one shopping trip and came back with at least 12 pairs of ugly $5 shoes that fit no one.

Bill was not a yard man, but he loved a beautifully maintained yard, and also loved to watch Norma rake hundreds of bags of leaves.

Bill was a huge fan of Ranch Oak furniture and bought several pieces from all around the country over the internet. This furniture is of such high quality, it will probably outlast us all.

Bill really enjoyed a good ribeye steak and never hesitated to remind people that chicken would kill you.

Bill loved attending the Stillwater Men's Lunch Bunch on Thursdays until his health prohibited him from attending.

Bill was preceded in death by his parents, grandparents, sister, and granddaughter.

He is survived by his wife Norma; children Renee and husband Steve Clark, Dionne Harrison, and JJ and husband Brian Jobe; grand and great-grandchildren Stefani, Kristi, Will, and Jadyn Clark, RJ and Evie Harrison, Cooper, Chase, and Eleanor Jobe, Braxton Batson and Julian Avila; his brother Ralph and Denise Harrison; and numerous nephews, nieces, and cousins.

Family would like to thank OU medical staff, the Stephenson Cancer Center, Dr. Baugher and the entire ICU staff at Stillwater Medical Center, the Stillwater Men's Lunch Brunch, FUMC staff, Dr. Daniel Hill and many friends who supported us during Bill's illness.

Those wishing to honor Bill's life may do so by contributing to the OSU Foundation at P.O. Box 1749 Stillwater, OK 74076 and the OSU Women's Softball Fund.

An online obituary may be viewed, and condolences left for the family at www.Strode fh.com.