I knew Burt from our days at Georgetown Prep (1945-1951). Then college came along and everyone pretty much went their separate ways. But Burt and I kept in contact for a few years and then marriages, kids and jobs led us   in different directions.  Burt was a good friend. May he RIP.

Burt and I were engaged on a snowy Christmas Eve and were married 20 yrs. We brought 2 daughters and a son into the world. The family started life in Florida and moved back to Maryland before the second daughter was born. The home in Florida was eventually sold. We all enjoyed the new home in Potomac and the beach place in Ocean City.

After Burt and I parted we remained friends throughout the years combining holiday celebrations to continue stability in our children's lives. Burt was also devoted to his parents and all of his siblings and regardless of circumstances never passed judgement on anyone. He will be missed.

My Daddy,  Burton Harrell, was "A Man for All Seasons."  He was deeply loved by his family and respected by all the people he encountered in life.  Burt's love of the Roman Catholic Faith came from his mother, Catherine, and his Southern Charm from his years at Georgetown Prep, Kenwood Country Club and various other institutions local to Bethesda, Maryland.  With a twinkle in his eye my Daddy would laugh and tell me he had really "enjoyed" life, but his proudest accomplishment was his three kids.  Dad was quiet in his admiration but was incredibly proud of all his children's accomplishments.  I was a Daddy's girl in my early years, and even renewed and grew that special bond when I had my son who proudly carries his name.  Grandpa spent a lot of time staying in our guest cottage at my farm in Virginia so he could teach William all about model trains, animals and nature.  Burt had a gentle kindness that animals just gravitated towards and he shared with this with my son, William Burton Harrell.  I will forever smile as I remember the fun I had for over fifty years with my father.  You will always be loved and never forgotten Daddy!  Love, Deborah

A lot of good memories Pops. From our yearly trips on the Gettysburg Railroad, A old steam engine where on the open car you could feel the coal cinders on your face like sand at the beach on a windy day. To our annual trip to Kings Dominion where on the upside down rides you always found a way to secure my glasses in your shirt. It was all great times. And then there was the building of the two cabins. We must have been a sight to see driving north on 270 with 2x4's strapped to the side of a Honda Prelude. I know you are at peace from the fruitful and caring life you led and are finding a way to watch your favorite WW2 movie, Midway. THANKS for it all, your son Burt

The loss of my Dad will not only be deeply felt by family but the world as a whole. My Dad made the world a better place by his never-ending kind and gentle spirit. Never did he raise his voice but only offered soft-spoken kindness. He was a true lover of animals and nature. He spent significant time outdoors enjoying the weather, the sky, the trees, the birds and all creatures. Dad always had his pet cat by his side throughout his life. His cat was his family too. He always told me, if I'm reincarnated, I want to come back as a Harrell cat. Dad passed the love of animals on to his children and grandchildren as well. Dad always had a kind word to say to everyone he met and knew how to make people feel special. That was his gift. Dad you are deeply missed and the world will never be the same without you. 

Will love you always,  
Your daughter, 
Joan

He meant so much to me. I am blessed to have him as my own "dad".  The time I spent with him was worth every second.  He taught me his secrets to life; to take it easy, don't get stressed and always care for others, especially the animals. It still has not sunk in yet that he has passed, a part of my heart missing. Love you dad, and thank you for the precious gift you gave away, your beautiful daughter Joan.

May God's loving kindness comfort you and help you through this sad time Psalms 29:11

OBITUARY

Burton William Harrell

March 18, 1933 – December 8, 2016

Serenity Funeral Home

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