Kim Reneè Harrison

Kim Reneè Harrison, a kind-hearted, friendly, supportive, and generous spirit, passed away suddenly and unexpectedly on Wednesday, December 3, 2025, at Tennova Healthcare in Powell, TN, at the age of 62.

Born on February 13, 1963, in Tazewell, TN, Kim built her life in the Knoxville area, eventually residing in Powell. She was a deeply respected and highly capable professional who served for many years as the Business Manager (Queen) for the History Department at the University of Tennessee. She was often referred to as the heart of the History Department. Administration, faculty, and staff alike relied on her efficiency, dedication, institutional knowledge, and pure stubbornness to keep the department running smoothly.

Following the tragic loss of her son, SPC G. Daniel Harrison, who died serving our country in Mosul, Iraq, Kim dedicated a substantial part of her life to supporting fallen hero organizations. She poured her energy and passion into activism, serving as a Chapter Treasurer for Rolling Thunder for 5 years and volunteering extensively for various Gold Star Families initiatives, raising crucial awareness for the sacrifices made by military families.

She enjoyed everything crafting, traveling, reading, and playing with her “fur babies” Gypsy and Raven every chance she had. One of her greatest achievements and adventures was being invited to participate in an archaeological dig in Turkey with the UT History Department. Kim’s balance of maternalism and sense of humor is what everyone adored and admired about her. We find comfort in knowing that Kim and Daniel are together in Heaven, and she is singing “You Are My Sunshine” to him, if she can remember the words.

She is survived by her devoted husband of 44 years, Douglas Edward Harrison; her beloved son, Joshua Stephen Harrison and siblings, Geoff Vannoy, Greg Vannoy, and Tammi Vannoy Bowling (Barry). She was a fun-loving aunt to Christi Bowling, Carey Ann Hawkins (Dylan), and Zack Bowling. Kim was a dear friend to countless people in the Knoxville, Powell, and UT communities.

Kim was preceded in death by son SPC G. Daniel Harrison, parents George and Evah Vannoy, and brother Brad Vannoy.

The family will receive friends on Thursday, December 11, 2025, from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Mynatt Funeral Home, 2000 Powell Dr., Powell, TN 37849. A service celebrating Kim's life will follow the visitation at 7:00 PM.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Kim’s memory to The Shriners Hospitals for Children, an organization dedicated to helping children in need.