Charles Gale Harwell, 81, passed away Monday, October 7, 2013 in Electra, Texas. Funeral services will be held at 11 AM on Friday, October 11, 2013 at the First Assembly of God Church in Electra with Rev. Darwin Stroud, Pastor, and Rev. Betty J. May of Russellville, Arkansas officiating. Graveside services with full military honors will follow at the Old Electra Cemetery under the direction of Dutton Funeral Home in Iowa Park. Visitation will be held on Thursday, October 10, 2013 from 6 to 8 PM at First Assembly of God Church in Electra.
Charles was born March 25, 1932 in Saratoga, Arkansas to Willie Joe and Ella Rae (Lightfoot) Harwell. Following high school Charles Harwell left his hometown of Saratoga, Arkansas when he was drafted into the Army. After four years of service, he joined the Air Force where he served for 22 years. TSGT Harwell retired in 1978 and is a veteran of the Korean and Vietnam war. While stationed at Sheppard Air Force Base in Wichita Falls, Texas he met Doris Jean Vestal of Electra, Texas. The two were married on February 17, 1956. During Harwell's Military career, he, Doris and their two children lived in numerous places before his retirement in 1978. The Harwell's then settled in Doris' hometown of Electra, Texas where he later worked for Dorland's Pipe and Supply, the Electra ISD and Dutton Funeral Home. He was an avid sports fan whether it was watching the Dallas Cowboys, the Arkansas Razorbacks or the Electra Tigers. He was also known to be happiest on the pitcher’s mound for many local softball leagues. Harwell's true passion was his family and his church. He served faithfully at First Assembly of God of Electra as a Royal Ranger Leader, Deacon and Board Member.
Charles is preceded in death by his parents; one son, Charles Harwell, Jr.; and two brothers, Larry and Gary Harwell.
Surviving relatives include his wife, Doris Jean Harwell of Electra; daughter, Gayla McDougal and her husband, Gil of Electra, Texas; son, Rex E. Harwell and his wife, Terrie Lynn of Fort Worth, Texas; five grandchildren, Ryan Harwell and wife, Jamie; Clinton Harwell and wife, Elizabeth; and Tara Harwell all of Fort Worth; Ian McDougal of Denton, Texas; and Valarie McDougal of South Carolina; and two great grandchildren, Cole and Sadie Harwell of Fort Worth.
The Harwell family would like to express their sincere appreciation to the Doctors and staff of Electra Memorial Hospital for their continued care and support. Also, sincere thanks to the many friends and neighbors who loved Charlie as family.
Memorials are suggested to the First Assembly of God Church of Electra, Texas.
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