-Compiled and edited by Shawn Nowlin
Who is Rhonda Harrison?
I am employed by Roanoke County Public Schools as a bus driver. I am a God-fearing woman who loves serving the Lord. I also love working with youth, both in my church and throughout the Roanoke Valley.
Where were you born and raised? What was your upbringing like?
I am a Roanoke native and proud 1987 graduate of William Fleming High School. My parents – George and Kathryn Harrison – were great role models. Growing up, I attended Sweet Union Baptist Church. I used to play recreational softball for my dad, who was the coach. I have so many memories that I will forever cherish.
After high school, what was the next chapter of your life?
I first enrolled in Knoxville College, then attended Old Dominion University in Norfolk.
What is your official title, and what do your responsibilities consist of?
I am a Deacon at Hill Street Baptist Church. As the Youth Director of the Valley Baptist Association, my responsibilities include serving the congregation, supporting our Pastor and bringing others to Christ. I teach the youth about God and how to apply him to their lives.
I also work with youth officers by giving them guidance and teaching leadership skills. Praising the Lord with them in songs is one of the best feelings in the world.
How important is family to you?
I am a single mother of two adult children – Darreon Harrison and Kayla Harvey. I also have two grandchildren in Tre and Anyaha Girty. Family is extremely important to me! Everything that I do is for them.
If you were building the ultimate music playlist for a six-hour road trip, which artists would be on it?
It would largely depend on where I was going. For sure, Heavy D., Pastor Mike Jones Jr., Kirk Franklin, Mary J. Blige and Prince would be on it.
What are some of your favorite City of Roanoke memories?
In high school, whenever a big football or band competition was happening, Victory Stadium was the place to be. I loved hanging out in the Hardee’s parking lot on Hershberger Road with friends. Just teenagers being teenagers without any major cares in the world.
What are some of your hobbies?
Thanks to my dad, I grew up a huge sports fan. Football and basketball are my favorites. I am a die-hard Dallas Cowboys and University of Virginia fan. I also love reading new books and spending quality time with loved ones.
Which people have had the biggest impact on your life outside of family?
The late Rev. Sylvia Ball, Rev. Preston K. Tyler, Rev. Melton Johnson, Mrs. Angeline Jones and Mrs. Carolyn Hubbard.
If you could go back and give your younger self some advice, what would it be?
Don’t think of yourself as a nobody and worthless because, as time will show, you will learn that you are more than what you have given yourself credit for.
