Age 85, Harrisonburg, Va.
William “Bill” Hines Harrell Jr., 85, passed peacefully on February 28, 2023 at his residence in the Phoenix Senior Living Community in Harrisonburg, Va.
Bill, Billy to some, was born May 2, 1937 in Staunton, Virginia. His parents relocated from Staunton to Portsmouth, Va., where he spent his formative years. He graduated from the Woodrow Wilson High School in Portsmouth, where he lettered in football and earned the rank of Eagle Scout.
He attended Georgia Tech and obtained a degree in Aeronautical Engineering, which led to his first career job in Santa Monica, CA. While in Santa Monica, he met Carol Putnam at a church event. They were married on February 3, 1962 in Los Angeles.
In 1965, they gave birth to their first child Donald and moved across the country, where he began work as a computer programmer for IBM. They gave birth to their daughter Janette in 1967.
He enjoyed outdoor activities such as tennis and running, and also enjoyed woodworking and playing his guitar. His greatest pleasure though was caring for his family. After retiring in 1991, they moved to various communities across the nation until finally settling in Harrisonburg, Va.
He is survived by Carol, his wife of 61 years, their two children, his sister Betty and brother Bob and their extended families.
A funeral service and interment of ashes will be conducted at 2 p.m. on Friday, March 10, 2023 at Christ Episcopal Church in Luray, Va. A reception will follow.
In lieu of flowers, consider a donation in his name to Page One (www.vapageone.org).
Arrangements are being handled by The Bradley Funeral Home in Luray, Va.
Our thoughts are prayers are with the family at this time. Know he’s at peace, surrounded by love and comfort .
Love,
Brick & Pam