Harold Cecil Cantrell, passed away peacefully at his home on Friday May 27, 2011. Born July 29, 1931 in Lawrence County, Missouri, Harold graduated from high school in 1949. Shortly after graduation he enlisted in the United States Air Force and served 4 years, honorably discharged with the rank of Staff Sergeant. In September, 1957, Harold married his wife of over 53 years, Justine Rose Sharkey, originally from St. John, New Brunswick, when they both were living and working in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Harold and Justine relocated in January, 1958 to the Dallas area where Harold worked full time and continued his education (he was originally enrolled at the University of Tulsa) at Southern Methodist University. Harold attended SMU at night, completing his undergraduate and graduate work at the Cox School of Business in May, 1960. Harold resided in the Dallas area throughout the remainder of his life.Upon graduation from SMU, Harold began what became a very successful 26 year career in the savings and loan and banking industry. His career highlights include primary ownership and executive management of Leader Savings & Loan located in Oak Cliff, later acquired by Murray Savings & Loan, where Harold remained as President. In November 1977, Harold acquired primary ownership of the American Bank located in Irving, Texas. Under his leadership as President and Chairman of the Board, the institution grew substantially and was acquired by Allied Bancshares of Texas in early 1982. He remained Chairman of the Board of Allied Bank Irving until his permanent retirement from the banking industry in 1986. Throughout his career, Harold was a highly respected and admired business leader. He helped and inspired many people throughout his career and forged many lifelong friendships with both clients and colleagues.
In retirement, Harold traveled extensively with family and friends, enjoying the sights, culture and people of 138 countries, falling just short of the "140 Club". Given his great love for far-flung travel destinations, Harold counted Nepal and the Southern Asian region among his most favorite (and remote) visits, along with his favorite cities Hong Kong and Buenos Aires. During his retirement, he also greatly enjoyed working on his Missouri cattle ranch which he maintained for 18 years. Throughout his life, Harold consistently demonstrated a tremendous individual drive and effort to succeed which was an inspiration to many. A very proud and private man, Harold's love for family and friends was best shown throughout his life via his tremendous generosity and support shown to family and friends. He is preceded in death by his parents Harvey Cecil and Helen Irene Cantrell (nee Burrow), and his brother William Glenn Cantrell. Harold is survived by his wife of 53 years Justine, his children Christopher Cantrell (Dallas), Cynthia Cantrell (Dallas), Michael and Jill Cantrell of Southlake, his niece Helen Cantrell of McKinney, sister-in-law Gean Cantrell-Stewart of McKinney and his very special and much loved grandchildren Kyle Cantrell of Southlake, Ryan Libby and Hunter Lynn Libby of Dallas. May God bless him and give him peace. In keeping with Harold's wishes, a private family-only ceremony will be held on Monday May 30, 2011. In lieu of flowers or cards, donations may be sent to either of the following charitable organizations in Harold's honor: American Cancer Society — Relay for Life Frisco 8900 John Carpenter Freeway, Dallas, Texas 75247, American Red Cross Greater Ozarks Regional Chapter Joplin Tornado Relief, P.O. Box 4002018, Des Moines, IA 50340-2018
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