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Richard Benjamin Harrison - A Look Back At The Old Man

Richard Benjamin Harrison

Jul 11, 2025
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Richard Benjamin Harrison

The news of Richard Benjamin Harrison's passing sent ripples through many homes, especially for those who felt they knew him through their television screens. He was, in a way, a familiar face, someone who brought a bit of the unexpected into our living rooms. His journey, from humble beginnings to becoming a recognizable figure on a popular reality show, truly captures a spirit of American enterprise. We heard that he passed away surrounded by the people who loved him most, and that, you know, really means something.

His absence is felt deeply, not just by his immediate family, but also by the folks he worked with at the Gold & Silver Pawn shop and, naturally, by the countless fans who followed his every move on "Pawn Stars." It's almost as if a piece of a certain kind of television history just went quiet. His quiet wisdom and, sometimes, his sharp wit, were things many people looked forward to seeing.

This article will take a closer look at the life and times of a man who left a significant mark on the world of reality television and, too, in the hearts of many who watched him. We'll touch on his early life, his service, his family connections, and what he built, along with the details surrounding his departure from this world. It’s a story of a person who, basically, lived life on his own terms.

Table of Contents

Biography: The Life of Richard Benjamin Harrison

Richard Benjamin Harrison, a man known to many simply as "The Old Man," was a Las Vegas business owner and a personality on reality television. Born on March 4, 1941, in Danville, Virginia, his life spanned a good many years, reaching 77 before he passed away. He became a familiar face to millions as the co-owner of the Gold & Silver Pawn Shop, a place that gained widespread fame through the History Channel program "Pawn Stars." His role on the show, in a way, showed his natural knack for spotting a good deal and his generally calm, collected demeanor.

Before his days in the pawn shop spotlight, Richard Benjamin Harrison served his country, having been a veteran of the U.S. Navy. This background, you know, often shapes a person, giving them a certain kind of discipline and perspective. His journey from military service to establishing a thriving business, and then becoming a television personality, really paints a picture of a person who was always moving forward, always building something. He was, apparently, a shrewd individual when it came to striking agreements, a skill that served him well throughout his life.

He was often referred to as "The Appraiser" by some, which really speaks to his reputation for knowing the value of things. This wasn't just about money, but also about the stories and history behind the items that came into his shop. His presence on "Pawn Stars" gave viewers a glimpse into the everyday happenings of a pawn shop, but it was his character, his dry wit, and his quiet authority that really drew people in. He was, to be honest, a grounding force on the show.

Personal Details & Bio Data of Richard Benjamin Harrison

Full NameRichard Benjamin Harrison Jr.
NicknamesThe Old Man, The Appraiser
Date of BirthMarch 4, 1941
Place of BirthDanville, Virginia, USA
Date of PassingJune 25, 2018
Place of PassingLas Vegas, Nevada, USA
Age at Passing77 years old
SpouseJoanne Rhue Harrison
ChildrenRick Harrison, Joseph Kent Harrison, Chris Harrison, Sherry Joanne Harrison (deceased)
Known ForCo-owner of Gold & Silver Pawn Shop, Reality TV Personality on "Pawn Stars"
Military ServiceU.S. Navy Veteran
Estimated Fortune at Death$5 million

What Made Richard Benjamin Harrison So Special?

What truly set Richard Benjamin Harrison apart, you might wonder? Well, for one thing, he had this remarkable ability to make a deal, a real talent for figuring out what something was worth and then getting it for a fair price. This wasn't just about being good at business; it was about having a deep knowledge of a wide array of items, from historical artifacts to everyday trinkets. He possessed, basically, a kind of quiet wisdom that came from years of experience and, honestly, a lot of looking and listening.

His calm demeanor, even when faced with some truly unusual items or quirky customers, was another aspect that made him memorable. He wasn't one for big dramatic outbursts; instead, he often offered a wry comment or a thoughtful observation that, you know, cut right to the chase. This grounded approach provided a steady anchor for the often boisterous antics of his son and grandson on "Pawn Stars," creating a dynamic that viewers really seemed to enjoy. He was, in a way, the steady hand.

Furthermore, his role as the patriarch, the head of the family business, gave him a certain gravitas. He was the one who had built the Gold & Silver Pawn Shop from the ground up, so his word carried weight. People looked up to him, both within his family and among his many fans. This sense of being a foundational figure, a person who had seen and done a lot, really contributed to his unique appeal. He was, pretty much, the real deal.

Who Was Richard Benjamin Harrison's Family?

Richard Benjamin Harrison’s personal life was, naturally, centered around his family. He was married to Joanne Rhue Harrison, and together they raised a family that eventually became part of the public eye. They had several children: Rick Harrison, who would become his business partner and co-star, Joseph Kent Harrison, and Chris Harrison. Sadly, they also had a daughter, Sherry Joanne Harrison, who passed away at a very young age, around six years old. This kind of personal history, you know, shapes a family deeply.

The family dynamic was, of course, a big part of the "Pawn Stars" show. Viewers got to see the interactions between Richard, his son Rick, and his grandson Corey. These relationships, with their everyday squabbles and moments of shared understanding, were a key element of the program's charm. It was, in a way, like watching a real family business unfold, with all its ups and downs. This closeness, and sometimes the humorous disagreements, really resonated with people.

Interestingly, there was a bit of talk about the family's lineage, too. Richard’s grandson, Corey, apparently suggested that their family line connected to former U.S. Presidents Benjamin Harrison and William Henry Harrison. However, Richard himself, the "Old Man," wasn't entirely convinced by this claim, which, you know, shows his pragmatic side. He was, essentially, a man who dealt in facts and tangible items, not necessarily distant historical connections.

Richard Benjamin Harrison's Legacy in Business

The business achievements of Richard Benjamin Harrison are, without a doubt, a significant part of his story. He wasn't just a face on television; he was the driving force behind the Gold & Silver Pawn Shop, a place that became world-famous. This establishment, located in Las Vegas, was more than just a place to buy and sell items; it became a cultural landmark, drawing visitors from all over because of its television fame. He built something, basically, from the ground up, which is a testament to his hard work.

His role as a "canny deal maker" meant he had a sharp mind for business, an instinct for value, and the ability to negotiate effectively. These skills were on full display during "Pawn Stars," where he would often be seen evaluating rare coins, historical documents, or unique collectibles. His knowledge, in some respects, was vast, covering a surprising range of subjects, which made him a respected figure in the pawn community and beyond. He had, honestly, a knack for it.

The show itself, "Pawn Stars," became a massive success, bringing the world of pawn shops into millions of homes and making Richard Benjamin Harrison a household name. This kind of widespread recognition for a small family business is, you know, quite remarkable. It speaks to the authenticity of the characters and the inherent interest in the items that passed through their doors. The shop, and Richard’s part in it, truly redefined what a pawn shop could be in the public eye. It was, quite simply, a phenomenon.

How Did Richard Benjamin Harrison's Estate Fare?

When Richard Benjamin Harrison passed away, his financial affairs naturally came into focus. He left behind a fortune that was reported to be around $5 million, which, you know, represents a lifetime of work and smart business decisions. The details of his estate, like with many public figures, became a matter of public record, shedding light on how he chose to distribute his assets among his loved ones. It's interesting, in a way, to see how someone plans for the future of their family.

His will, which was updated in 2017, named his wife and two of his sons as the primary beneficiaries of his wealth. This included Joanne Rhue Harrison, his wife, and his sons Rick and Joseph Kent Harrison. However, a notable detail emerged from this update: his youngest son, Christopher Harrison, was not included in the estate. This decision, while private, did become a talking point, as such exclusions often do. It shows, basically, the complexities that can arise within families, even those in the public eye.

The management of his affairs after his passing, with his son Rick serving as a pallbearer at his funeral, underscores the family's role in continuing his legacy. The fortune he accumulated was a direct result of his business acumen and the success of the Gold & Silver Pawn Shop, which, you know, he had built over many years. His financial arrangements, therefore, reflect the life he lived and the people he wanted to provide for. It was, arguably, a clear statement of his wishes.

The Final Chapter: Richard Benjamin Harrison's Passing

The news of Richard Benjamin Harrison's passing came on June 25, 2018. He was 77 years old at the time, having lived a full and, for many years, a very public life. Reports indicated that he passed away peacefully, surrounded by his loving family. This detail, that he was with those he cared about most in his final moments, often brings a sense of comfort to those who hear it. It suggests a calm departure, which, you know, is something many hope for.

The Gold & Silver Pawn's Facebook page, the official voice of the business he helped build, shared the sad news on that Monday. They mentioned that he had been surrounded by his loved ones during his last weekend, emphasizing the peaceful nature of his passing. This kind of public announcement, coming from the heart of his business, really showed the profound impact he had on the people he worked with and, too, on the broader community of fans. His passing marked the end of an era for many who followed "Pawn Stars."

His death was, naturally, a moment of sadness for his family, including his son Rick, who spoke publicly about the loss. The outpouring of support from fans across the globe was a testament to how much "The Old Man" meant to people. He was more than just a television personality; he was, in a way, a part of many people's weekly routine, a source of entertainment and, sometimes, even a little bit of wisdom. His memory, therefore, continues to be held dear by a great many.

One of the more intriguing, if unconfirmed, tidbits about Richard Benjamin Harrison involved a potential connection to American history. His grandson, Corey, apparently made a claim that the Harrison family line was related to two former U.S. Presidents: Benjamin Harrison and William Henry Harrison. This kind of family lore, you know, can be quite fascinating, adding a layer of historical intrigue to a person's background. It's the sort of story that makes you wonder about your own family tree.

However, the "Old Man" himself, Richard, wasn't entirely convinced by his grandson's assertion. This detail is, perhaps, quite telling about his character. He was a person who dealt in verifiable facts and tangible items in his business, so a grand claim about presidential lineage, without solid proof, might not have held much sway with him. His skepticism, in a way, adds to his down-to-earth persona that fans appreciated. He was, basically, a man who liked to see the evidence.

While the direct connection remains a matter of family anecdote rather than confirmed genealogy, it certainly adds a colorful note to the story of Richard Benjamin Harrison. It’s a fun fact, perhaps, that highlights the varied conversations and interests that might have taken place within the Harrison family, both on and off screen. It just goes to show, you know, that even the most grounded individuals can have a bit of mystery or grand tales surrounding them.

A Fond Look at Richard Benjamin Harrison

Looking back at the life of Richard Benjamin Harrison, it's clear he was a person who lived with purpose and left a lasting impression. From his time serving in the Navy to building a world-renowned pawn shop, his story is one of dedication and, honestly, a good deal of grit. He wasn't just a character on a television show; he was a real person who had seen a lot, learned a lot, and, in a way, shared a piece of his life with millions of viewers.

His contributions to the Gold & Silver Pawn Shop and to the success of "Pawn Stars" are, without a doubt, a significant part of his legacy. He helped create a show that entertained and, too, educated people about history and the value of unique items. His presence, with his quiet demeanor and sharp observations, was a comforting constant for many who tuned in. He was, in some respects, the heart of the operation.

Ultimately, Richard Benjamin Harrison will be remembered for his role as "The Old Man," a beloved patriarch and a shrewd businessman who brought a bit of the unexpected into our homes. His life, from his birth in Danville, Virginia, to his passing in Las Vegas, Nevada, was full of notable achievements and personal moments that, you know, painted a picture of a truly unique individual. His memory lives on through his family, his business, and the countless episodes of "Pawn Stars" that continue to be enjoyed by fans.

Richard Benjamin Harrison
Richard Benjamin Harrison
Richard Benjamin Harrison | Aeon clash Wiki | Fandom
Richard Benjamin Harrison | Aeon clash Wiki | Fandom
Remembering Richard Benjamin Harrison
Remembering Richard Benjamin Harrison

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