Harrison Michael Heller, age 40, passed away unexpectedly on June 4, 2026. He is survived by his wife Sara Rothman, daughter Madeleine, parents Debra and Edward Heller, sister Alana Heller Flatow (Greg), in-laws Lee and Barry Rothman, and brother-in-law Joshua Rothman (Miranda). Born in West Palm Beach, Florida, Harrison grew up in Florida and Ohio before settling in Rockville, Maryland. Harrison loved learning and explored many areas of interest before finding his passion in global affairs. He received his BA from the University of Akron and completed his masters degree in Global Security from the University of Oklahoma. He worked for Anser as a defense contractor. He was very proud of the work he did and many of his coworkers became close friends.

Harrison was an avid traveler and his volunteer work in Rwanda, Ethiopia, and Cuba fueled his longtime interest in international relations and global affairs. His work at the Agahozo-Shalom Youth Village in Rwanda was particularly impactful and Harrison kept in touch with some of the orphans whom he befriended there long after he left.

Family was at the center of Harrison’s life. He was a loving and devoted husband and father. His favorite place to be was with his beloved Sara and Maddie. He was a steadfast friend and had a gift for keeping in touch, even over many miles and years. Sara and Maddie shared his love of travel; their favorite vacation destinations together included New York City and Florida. A gourmet cook, Harrison delighted in cooking up a storm for friends and family and firmly believed that food equals love. He was a consummate storyteller and knew something about just about everything, no matter how obscure. He loved animals of all stripes, especially his beloved rescue pets. He will be deeply missed.

Funeral services will be held on Monday June 8, 2026, at 1:30 PM at Washington Hebrew Congregation, 3935 Macomb St. NW, Washington, DC 20016. Interment to follow at Garden of Remembrance, 14321 Comus Road, Clarksburg, MD 20871. Shiva will follow from 5-8pm.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Agahozo-Shalom Youth Village through www.asyv.org.