Robert (Bob) Harrell

Robert Allen (Bob) Harrell, 78, of Poplar Bluff, went home to his Heavenly Father on Sunday, Dec. 29, 2019 surrounded by his loved ones.

The son of John and Effie Harrell, Bob was born Aug. 12, 1941 in Jacksonville, Ill. His childhood years growing up on Routt Street created countless memories that became cherished family stories and legends. At the age of 12, the Lord graciously saved Bob and gave him faith that would shape and guide him his entire life.

Bob was a graduate of Jacksonville High School, Southern Illinois University, and Michigan State University. He served three years in the U.S. Marine Corps and was involved in the Cuban Missile Blockade.

After his time in the military, Bob met his sweetheart, Elaine Royal. They married on June 12,1965 at Maplewood Baptist Church in Cahokia, Ill. Upon completion of his education in 1971, he began his career as a forester with the U.S. Forest Service. This would lead him and Elaine to live all over the United States before moving to Poplar Bluff in 1987. Bob worked for the U.S. Forest Service for 38 years before retiring in 2008.

Bob was a faithful member of First Baptist Church where he served as a deacon. He was a gentle man of prayer who loved God’s word. He enjoyed fishing and hunting with his brother, gardening, and traveling to 49 of the 50 states. He was an avid reader, storyteller, Cardinals fan, and expert listener. But most of all, he treasured being with his family.

Bob is survived by his loving wife of 54 years, Elaine; two daughters, Becky (Jeff) Caldwell of Little Rock, Ark. and Cindy (Brandon) Shafer of Louisville, Ky. Bob and Elaine were blessed with six grandchildren, Ethan and Avery Caldwell, Corban, Eliana, Jude and Gabriella Shafer. He is also survived by a brother, Ed (Clodie) Harrell of White Bear Lake, Minn., a sister, Norma Brown of Fayetteville, Tenn. and beloved in-laws, nieces, nephews and cousins.

Bob was preceded in death by his parents and sister, Shirley VanBebber.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, Jan. 2, from 5-7 p.m. at First Baptist Church. The celebration of life service will be Friday, Jan. 3, at 10 a.m., also at First Baptist with Rev. Brandon Spain officiating. Memorials may be given to Graffiti 2 Community Ministries, P.O. Box 541559, Bronx, NY 10454.

Online condolences may be expressed at www.cotrellfuneralservice.com