James Brandt Harrison

James Brandt Harrison, 65, of Austin, Texas, shot his final arrow and made his journey on May 27, 2024. Brandt loved sharing his stories and experiences with everyone he met. 

Born on March 24, 1959, to James Russell Harrison and Bobbie Joyce Phelps, Brandt was often called by his middle name, which stuck with the family throughout his life. Known to many as "Jesse James", Brandt embraced this moniker, believing he was the reincarnated outlaw. 

Brandt was born and raised in Austin, Texas, a city he deeply loved. Growing up in Austin during the '70s provided him with countless stories, many of which centered around the family lake house on Lake Travis. This beloved gathering spot was where he, his siblings, and cousins learned how to water ski and scuba dive.

Brandt served in the Texas Army National Guard, completing a tour in Honduras and earning his military welding license. After his service, he worked at Spillar Boat Docks as a welder during the company's early days. He later joined Dell Computers, where he managed their first warehouse on Metric Boulevard. 

Brandt is survived by his father, James R. Harrison; his brother, Harlan Harrison; his sister, Regina Harrison Waldo, and her husband, David; his stepchildren, Stacy Welch and William Welch; along with numerous nieces, nephews, and a host of other relatives and friends. 

He was preceded in death by his mother, Bobbie Joyce Phelps Harrison; his spouse of 23 years, Madeline Sue Petersen Harrison; and his older brother, Tommy Harrison. 

In his later years, Brandt discovered a passion for archery. He competed in numerous events across Texas and nationwide, winning multiple medals and awards. One of his fondest memories was taking the gold medal at the 2023 Texas Open in a one-arrow shoot-off. 

Brandt, you have left us, but "Though the Voice Is Quiet, The Spirit Echoes Still."