Oliver "Ollie @ JCP" Farrell Harrell

He is survived by his loving wife of 54 years, Barbara Griffin Harrell; brothers, Fred Harrell, Perry Harrell; sisters, Earline Nery, Rachel Scott, Mary Combs and Tanya Hall; sons, Skip Harrell, Scott Harrell (Beth), Daniel Harrell; daughter, Stephanie Dixon (Rick); grandchildren, Zack Harrell, Amanda Harrell, Brandon Harrell, Ryan Dixon, Alexander Harrell, Haley Harrell, Mason Harrell and one great-grandchild, Blakely Harrell. Oliver is predeceased by his brother, Willard Harrell and sisters, Nellie Crosby, Alma Hudgins and Catherine Simmons.

He had a multitude of extended children and grandchildren. They all called him granddaddy and he loved each of them dearly. Each one of them held a special place in his heart. All received some of his words of wisdom and lots of laughs along the way. The time he spent with each one of them was so special to him. If you called him Granddaddy you know he loved you so much.

Oliver graduated from Norview High School in 1951 and was voted Mr. Norview (1951) what a personality he had. He started working at age 16 at various jobs through high school. He served his country in the U.S. Army in Korea and quickly climbed the ranks to Sargent. He received numerous medals and awards including the Korean Service Medal, Meritorious Unit Citation, United Nations Service Medal, Good Conduct Medal and National Defense Service Medal. Upon Honorable Discharge from the Army he began working in Banking where he met his wife Barbara. Oliver quickly moved up the corporate ladder to become Vice President of the bank. Speaking with his customers and trying to ensure they were getting the best service earned him much respect in the banking industry. After working 30 plus years in banking he moved on to his retirement job working for JCPenney. He worked for 35 years with JCPenney until his passing at 90. All his customers loved him and they returned regularly just to chat with him. If you do the math, Oliver worked for 74 years of his life now that’s impressive!

Aside from his love of birds, Oliver was passionate about gardening. He was always eager to manicure his numerous flowerbeds and keep his yard in award winning shape. He also loved Bowling shot a 299 one point away from a perfect 300 game. One of his most favorite thing to do was to enjoy something chocolate or a banana split, these things would make him smile. Oliver truly made an impact on all those who knew him and will be truly missed.

A Celebration of Oliver’s Life will be held January 14, 2023 at 11:00am at Aldersgate United Methodist Church, 5767 Sellger Drive, Norfolk, VA 23502 with Reception to follow.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to Aldersgate United Methodist Church in Oliver’s name.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.kellumfuneralhome.com for the Harrell family.