Deacon Jasper Leon Harrell, Sr.

“A Pillar of the Amite City Community”

* He was a family man.

* He was not only faithful to God but was faithful to his family.

* Married to Josephine Doretta Richardson-Harrell. A loving wife & mother. 

* Their marriage was so solid and sweet that simply to be around them had a positive influence on others. 

* He was a man of faith. 

* Head Deacon of Gordon-Richardson Church of God in Church.

* He served there until he passed away in June 1961.

* He is the father of my grandfather-The late Elder Herbert Harrell. 

* His leadership was unique because he was a quiet leader.Whether it was deacon of a church board or any board; Grandfather Jasper didn’t always have a lot to say, but when he did, everyone listened. 

* He carried a lot of weight with his opinions because he observed first, then spoke.

* He was highly respected by many.

* He was self-employed. Built & repaired many houses & buildings in Amite City and surrounding areas.

* Later in his life, he was employed by Shell Fabrication Homes as a carpenter. He remained employed at Shell until his death. He died on the job.

* Was a voice of comfort and challenge for many in the community and the family.

* He was able to work with those with whom he differed. 

* He was a hard worker. 

* He raised many crops as a farmer. My grand-father & his siblings had to participate in the planting & harvesting of the crops.

* If you ever heard Paul Harvey’s, “So God Made A Farmer,” then you know my great Grand-father, Deacon Jasper Leon Harrell, Sr. He raised everything that they ate. 

* I wonder who among the young people will be the next pillar of your community.

* His 10 children had a pretty good head start, thanks to him and great grand-mother Josephine. 

* My grand-father, Elder Herbert Harrell & all of his siblings had mighty boots to fill and they did.

* I present to you, my late Great Grand-Father Deacon Jasper Leon Harrell, Sr. & his loving wife-my Great Grand-Mother, Josephine Doretta Richardson-Harrell. 

* A man and woman of faith that leaves a legacy for the Harrell Family and the Amite City community.