Perry B. Harrell

Perry B. Harrell passed away peacefully at his home on the morning of August 14, 2025. He was preceded in death by his parents, J.N. Harrell and Dorothy Batton Harrell. He is survived by his loving wife, Evelyn; his three children; grandchildren; and great-grandchild, as well as his elder brother, Jimmy Harrell of Medart, and his sister, Caroline Lambert Diez of Cummings, Georgia. A memorial service will be held at First Baptist Church of Tallahassee on August 24, with visitation at 3:00 p.m. and the service at 4:00 p.m. A burial service at Tallahassee National Cemetery will follow on September 1, with the time to be announced. Born in Live Oak, Florida, Perry spent most of his life in Tallahassee. He was a proud graduate of Leon High School, Class of 1958, where he played football and ran track. He later attended Florida State University before joining the U.S. Army in 1960. On September 1, 1962, Perry married the love of his life, Evelyn Joyce Redd. Together they shared 63 wonderful years and joyfully helped raise their three children: Sharon Harrell Green of Fort Lauderdale; Ben Harrell (Shirley) of Tallahassee; and Joel Harrell (Paula) of Charleston, South Carolina. Perry was also a devoted grandfather to Justin Harrell (Nicolette), Andrew Harrell, and Jason Green, and a proud great-grandfather and namesake to Perry Joseph “P.J.” Harrell. In his early career, Perry owned and operated Apalachee Printing Company in Tallahassee. He later worked more than 30 years with the U.S. Postal Service. Perry’s faith was central to his life. He was often seen reading his Bible at home, always keeping it close at hand. Over the years, he served as a deacon, mentor, and Sunday School teacher for an all-boys class, where he invested deeply in the lives of young men—organizing camping trips and creating lasting memories. In more recent years, Perry and Evelyn attended First Baptist Church of Tallahassee. His favorite hymn was In the Garden, inspired by the Gospel of John, chapter 20. Perry loved his family deeply. He delighted in being a father and grandfather, never missing an opportunity to show his support—from football games and science projects to band concerts. He was his grandsons’ biggest fan, always making time for them and reminding them often, “I am proud of you”. He also cherished his extended family, with roots stretching from Mississippi to Central Florida. Annual family reunions were among his greatest joys, and he rarely missed a gathering. Perry treasured memories of time spent on his grandmother’s farm and even preserved many of those stories in writing to share with others. Beyond family and church, Perry found joy in community and friendship. He met weekly with his beloved Leon High classmates—affectionately known as “The Fat Boys Club”—for lunch every Thursday. Known for his warmth, kindness, and servant’s heart, Perry also regularly called and visited those in need. A lifelong supporter of FSU football, Perry held season tickets in the same seats for nearly 50 years. He passed on his love of tailgating and Seminole football to his children. 'Famous' for his BBQ skills, he was known for his smoked turkeys and ribs. Sharing them generously on holidays and game days. Family lore recalls that, ribs were occasionally traded for hugs — or for an even better parking spot! Perry’s delightful sense of humor shone through in his many “Perryisms.” He was quick with a witty comeback and often answered the phone with a playful, “Got a quarter?” Though Perry will be deeply missed, his family and friends find comfort in knowing he now rests in the eternal love and light of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. The love he gave so freely will never be forgotten and will remain imprinted on our hearts forever. The family will receive friends, Sunday, August 24, 2025, from 3:00 PM until 4:00 PM, at Tallahassee First Baptist Church, 108 W College Ave, Tallahassee, FL. 32301, The memorial service will follow at 4:00 PM. Todd Wahlquist is assisting the family with their arrangements (850-385-2193, www.bevisfh.com).

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Perry B. Harrell

October 9, 1939 - August 14, 2025