Benjamin Alexander Harrison, 96, of Jefferson passed away Wednesday, July 19, 2017 at the NC State Veterans Home in Salisbury, NC. He was born January 13, 1921 in Johnson City, TN to William Gordon and Rose Ann Goodman Harrison. He was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Iris Hamby; sister, Nina; and brother Frank. Ben was a member of Jefferson United Methodist Church, the VFW, and the American Legion. He served in the US Army during World War II and took part in the North African invasion in November, 1942. He spent 26 months overseas building roads and temporary bridges and detecting land mines. During this tenure, his outfit was attached to the British 8th Army Royal engineers in Tunisia; the Free French Forces near Siena, Italy; and Brazilian Expeditionary Forces in the North Apennines. He received the European African-Middle Eastern Medal with Four Bronze campaign stars and the American Defense Medal. Serving in the North Apennines, he incurred wounds which resulted in the loss of his right leg. He was awarded the Purple Heart. Ben was employed as a bookkeeper for Colvard Farms for 39 years. He loved gardening, reading, and spending time with his family. Ben will always be remembered for his quick wit and humor. He is survived by a son, Dr. Bob Harrison and wife Lenna; two daughters, Sarah Harrison, and Barbara Pendry and husband Larry; four grandchildren, Michael Kaeser, Samantha Kaeser, Ben Pendry, and Caroline Pendry; one great grandson, Branch James Pendry; and a special friend, Johanna Gorham. Services will be held Saturday, July 22 at Boone Funeral Chapel. Visitation will be held from 12:00-1:00, at Boone Funeral Home with services beginning at 1:00. Burial will be at Ashelawn Memorial Gardens with full military honors. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Humane Society of Ashe.