Keith Scott Harrison

Keith Scott Harrison of Emporia passed away on Sunday, May 31, 2026, at the Emporia Presbyterian Manor at the age of 73.

Keith was born on September 23, 1952, in Emporia, Kansas, to Ronald and Glenna Graham Harrison Nightingale. He graduated from Roosevelt High School in 1970 and later earned a B.F.A. in Communications from Emporia State University in 2010.

After high school, Keith worked at IBP while pursuing his education at Kansas State Teachers College. During this time, he was an active member of the KSTC Summer Theatre Company, performing in productions such as Camelot and Oklahoma! He then moved to Kansas City, working as a DJ at the Airport Marriott and other venues from 1973 to 1978. He also engaged in radio ads, voice-over work, and helped produce a Saturday morning children’s cartoon host program on KBMA-TV, where he acted as Ranger Rick and a superhero.

In 1979, Keith relocated to New York City, where he spent 12 years building his career as a stand-up comedian, performing at comedy clubs nationwide. During this period, he also worked as a taxi driver, driving instructor, and receptionist at the New York Civil Liberties Union until his comedy career was well established.

Keith returned to Emporia in 1991 following the tragic death of his brother Kent. In honor of his brother, Keith rebuilt Kent’s motorcycle, which became his own. He worked at Modine from 1992 to 2004 and operated his motorcycle repair business, The Sickle Shop, on South Commercial Street. Known for his generosity, Keith often provided free repairs to bikers in need and even assisted riders who experienced breakdowns. He was also an avid motorcycle racer.

A dedicated community member, Keith was involved with ABATE District 12, serving one term as president and actively organizing events such as the ABATE Spring Fling and poker runs. He was also a member of the American Federation of Television & Radio Artists.

Keith is survived by his sisters, Lesley (Jeff) Hedges of Emporia and Holly (Rigoberto) Aranda of Riverside, California, along with many nieces, nephews, and great-nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his mother, Glenna, stepfather Max Nightingale, father Ronald, stepmother Emma Harrison, and brother Kent Harrison.

Cremation is planned, with a Celebration of Life on Monday, July 27, 2026, at 1:30 p.m. at the Ball-McColm Post #5, American Legion with a motorcycle lineup at 12:45 p.m., for an escort from American Legion parking lot to Memorial Lawn patio for brief service and committal of ashes at 1:00 p.m.  Please feel free to dress casually in jeans, shorts, with a motorcycle, classic rock, Al Green, Motown or New York t-shirt is encouraged.  Memorial contributions to Emporia Senior Center designated for programs for Seniors with disabilities and support and training for their caregivers can be sent in care of Roberts-Blue-Barnett Funeral Home, P.O. Box 175, Emporia, Kansas 66801.