I was sorry to hear of David’s passing. I always thought a lot of him. I pray he is at peace. My condolences to his family. I am thinking of you Kim.

Shirley, David was one of those special people. His twinkling eyes always brought a smile to my face.  His love for you, Kim, Jerry and the rest of the crew shined brightly.  No one could spin a tale like David.  God is keeping you close and wrapping His comforting arms around all of you. 
Love you, 
Pebbles Hearn

Shirley, you have and will continue to be in my thoughts and prayers. 
I know you and Mr. Harrell through Kim. 
From the stories I have heard, I know his loss is great for all who loved him here on earth. Just know you will see him in the future and it will be for eternity.

David will be missed.  He was a great example of being a good police officer.  He was a great FTO, Knowledgeable about the state law and city ordinances, more importantly he was fair in dealing with the public.    But to me his best quality was as a mentor to the young officers, a great FTO to Me and a friend.  David will be missed.  Shirley may the Lord look after you until you can be with him again.  D Bridges

David was a true friend and mentor for many a young officer. He was always passionate about his work and taught us all about the true meaning of being a good officer. He will always be remembered for his service and his humor while being a best friend to everyone in the police force. Rest in peace my brother You will not be forgotten.

Ah, David. 
I remember him as my first field training officer and someone whose example profoundly shaped my approach to policing. He taught me that professionalism begins with recognizing the humanity in every person and treating everyone with dignity and respect. He was an exceptional police officer and an even finer human being.
Rest in perfect peace Officer Harrell. 

Dr. Thomas H. Williams

David Harrell was the best. He was my first training officer in 1978, when I converted at 21 from cadet to sworn police officer. We worked the 322 and 321 districts together. He knew every street, alley, and problem individual in those areas.

On my first day riding with him, I asked what he did before becoming a police officer. Without missing a beat, in his usual gentle, easy-going voice—I never heard him raise it—he said he had been a fighter pilot in Vietnam. He described the jet he flew, where he was stationed, and some of his exploits. The whole time I kept saying, “Really? That’s so cool!” He never cracked a smile or let on that he was completely BS’ing me. He let me believe it for a couple of hours before admitting it was made up. We laughed about it for quite a while.

He was one of the most patient training officers I ever had—exactly what I needed—and a wonderful teacher. So many great memories with him. My deepest condolences to Shirley, his family, and his many friends.

David was one my first FTO'S when I started at the NLRPD. I remember how nice he was and he really taught me the important things a new officer should know. We spent many hours together so I heard several sories, had a few pranks pulled on me, and saw first hand how much he loved his family. There are only a handful of people in life that are just really good all around people...David was high on that list! Rest in Peace buddy!

Bobby and Janet, 
I am so sorry for your loss. Praying for comfort for you both.

I worked with David as an officer at NLRPD downtown.  I have many good memories of my time with David.  Always ready with a smile and gentle advice when asked.  David, now you can really fly...  Fly with the Angels, my friend.

My condolences to your family.

My brother David has a heart big as himself. He is gentle in spirit, soft spoken, loving, loved his family and extremely protective. He loved being a police officer and also loved our country🇺🇸. My brother has a memory that is amazing, never forgetting a person or family event. He loved keeping family history with his wife, Shirley. David CARES, HE LOVED US ALL DEEPLY.  What in the world will our family do without #11 Harrell Kid? What will Shirley, Jerry, Brooke, Eva, Conner, Kim, Brett and Dale do without David?  We already miss him with broken hearts but will let him go in PEACE.  LOVE YOU DAVID HARRELL..#11 of 12 Harrell Kids ❤️💔

Many fond memories of Mr. David at Long Hunting Club. He will be sorely missed.

I have many fond memories of David from working with him, but especially from the month or so I spent riding with him while I was on probation. I’m so glad I got the chance to really talk with him at one of the law-enforcement memorials a few years ago. My prayers go out to his family.
Mike and Kris Rickard

So sorry to hear about David. He was one of the best of the best at NLRPD. Praying for comfort for you and family. 

Gary and Dee Sipes

So many fond memories of David, may he rest in peace.

Charles and I are sad to hear about David.. it was good seeing him and talking to him at deer camp and seeing ya’ll.  We are praying for you and your family.

Shirley,  Wanda and  are saddened to read about David’s home going to Heaven.   I know you had a difficult time these last few years because of his health.  Praying for comfort for you and your family during this time of grief. 

Fred and Wanda

Shirley sympathy to you and all of the family.  David was a special man. So sad that he has passed. Will be praying for you.

OBITUARY

David F. Harrell

October 8, 1944 – October 14, 2026

Pinecrest Funeral Home & Memorial Park

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