William P. "Bill" Harrell, 54, was lovingly surrounded by his family when he passed away on December 26, 2013, at Phoebe Putney Hospital in Albany.
A memorial service will be held January 4, 2013 at 11 A.M. at St. Mark’s Episcopal Church in Brunswick with a reception to follow at the home of Ray and Linda Pinson of St. Simons Island.
Mr. Harrell was born on August 26, 1959, to Wallace E. Harrell II and Charlotte Harrell in Brunswick and grew up on St. Simons' Island where he developed a love of nature and being on the water. He attended St. Simons' Elementary School and Glynn Academy.
Mr. Harrell received a B.S. Degree in Education from Georgia Southern University, M.A. Degree in Middle Grades Education from North Georgia College, and an Ed. S. Degree in Middle Grades Language Arts and Social Studies from Brenau University. He taught middle school children for 29 years in Augusta, Gainesville, Tyrone, and Macon before moving to Fitzgerald to teach at Ben Hill Middle School in 2007. Mr. Harrell was a beloved and respected teacher who touched the lives of not only his students, but also those who worked with him. He possessed a kind, gentle spirit and sense of humor that engaged his students. He had an infectious smile that lightened the spirit of those who came into contact with him.
Mr. Harrell was an avid reader, especially fond of Emmet Fox's spiritual teachings. He hiked many miles of the Appalachian Trail, enjoyed canoeing, and visiting state and national parks. He had an affinity for Americana music, playing his guitar, and painting. Bill also had a great passion for golf. He was a low handicapper and enjoyed playing in tournaments especially with his father, brother and sons. He was the consistent winner of the family Harrell Cup.
He is survived by his father Wallace E. Harrell and Mary Harrell of St. Simons Island, his mother Charlotte Harrell of Brunswick, sons William Poole Harrell and Zachary Harrell of Atlanta, a brother Wallace E. and Ann Harrell III, two nieces Elizabeth and Laura Ann Harrell of St. Simons, the mother of his children Lisa Hedenstrom of Atlanta, and a very special friend, Gina Wiggins of Fitzgerald. He is also survived by a step-sister Lisa Cook of St. Mary’s Georgia, two stepbrothers Richard Warren Ivens of Buford, South Carolina and Gregory Webster Hill of St. Simons Island.
He was preceded in death by his beloved brother, George Lily Harrell of Brunswick.
Contributions may be made in lieu of flowers to the charity of your choice.