Gerald L. Harrell

Gerald (Jerry) L. Harrell, age 83, died of natural causes on February 10, 2021 in Mesquite, TX. He is survived by his daughters, Lynda Harrell of Mesquite, TX and Deborah Harrell of St. Augustine, FL; and his sister and brother-in-law, Betty and Bob Wagner of Sunnyvale, TX; and nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his mother, Ila Jane Hatcher Harrell; father, Archie Henry Harrell; and brothers, Henry Harrell and Billy Harrell.

Gerald was born on September 9, 1937 in Dallas, TX. He graduated from Sunset High School in 1955, and soon after, joined the Army. As part of the 82nd Airborne division, he made several great friends. As a Senior Parachutist and Jumpmaster, he was proud to have made several parachute jumps. When someone made the joke about jumping out of perfectly good airplanes, Gerald always replied that if you saw the C130s, you’d jump too!

In 1958, Gerald married Marie Parisien and the couple had two daughters. He also joined the Dallas Police Department and was soon assigned to the Motorcycle Division. He rode motorcycles until age and injuries forced him to give it up and he became a detective. Gerald was stationed at the Dallas Trade Mart on November 22, 1963, where they awaited the arrival of President John F. Kennedy for lunch with Dallas business leaders. However, the President never arrived due to the tragic events at Dealey Plaza.

After 30 years of service with DPD, Gerald retired and enjoyed spending time with his children, dog and numerous cats. He learned to use modern technology and loved playing games and keeping up with old Army buddies via email.

In lieu of flowers, please send a donation in Gerald’s name to the SPCA of Texas, 2400 Lone Star Dr., Dallas, TX 75212.