Gary Randal Harrell, Sr., 80

Gary Randal Harrell, Sr., 80, passed away Thursday, August 14, 2025, surrounded by his family. Born in Columbus, Georgia and raised in Louisville, Kentucky, Gary was a proud graduate of Butler High School, where he excelled in track and field and was a member of the football team.

He went on to attend Tennessee Tech University, where he was a four-year letterman in track and field and cross country. Gary earned both his bachelor’s degree and an Education Specialist (Ed.S.) degree from TTU. His life was also marked by service to his country as a member of the United States Army during the Vietnam War.

After college, Gary moved to McMinnville, where he dedicated 23 years to the Warren County School System as a respected educator and served as president of the Warren County Teachers Association. In addition to his career in education, he was a successful small business owner, operating Hale’s Dry Cleaners and Stubby’s Cleaners for many years. He loved his Corvette and the rolling hills of the Cumberland Plateau.  Gary and Phyllis have attended Freedom Life Church for several years.

Gary (also known as Papa by his grandchildren) is survived by his loving wife of 42 years, Phyllis Harrell; two sons, Randal (Ashley) Harrell and Andy (Marianne) Harrell; and four cherished grandchildren, Chip Harrell, Hannon Harrell, Henry Harrell, and Annie Hale Harrell. He is also survived by his brothers, Earl Harrell and Dan (Becky) Harrell; sister-in-law Sarah Ramsey; brother-in-law Terry (Sonia) Hines; and numerous nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews from the Ramsey, Netherton, Hines, Carter, Akers, and Stanfield families—all of whom he loved deeply.

Gary was preceded in death by his parents Harmon and Iolene Harrell; in-laws J.T. and Betty Hale; sister-in-law Debbie Harrell; brother-in-law Paul Ramsey; and sister-in-law Johnnie T. Hines.

A lifelong sports fan, Gary never missed an opportunity to cheer for his favorite team and was an avid supporter of his sons’ and extended family’s athletic endeavors. His legacy is one of quiet determination and steadfast devotion—to his family, faith, church, community, and the values he held dear. He will be greatly missed.

The funeral service will be held at Freedom Life Church on Sunday, Aug. 17 at 3 p.m., with visitation from 1 -3 p.m.  Burial will follow at Gath Baptist Cemetery.

Main Street Journal

Aug. 15, 2025