James Raymond "Ray" Harrell, 85, of Mt. Vernon, died 8:31 a.m. Jan. 4, 2007, at his home.

Ray was born on July 17, 1921, in Cobden, to James S. Harrell and Martha (Roach) Harrell.

He married Helen Iola (Worthen) Harrell on June 17, 1943, in Gorham.

He retired after 38 years of employment at Illinois Power Company where he had worked as a gas distribution foreman.

Funeral services will be held at 1 p.m. Sunday at Hughey Funeral Home in Mt. Vernon. Rev. John Stanford will officiate. Burial will follow at Mt. Vernon Memorial Gardens in Woodlawn. Visitation will be held 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. Saturday, at Hughey Funeral Home in Mt. Vernon.

Surviving family members include wife and love of his life for 63 years Helen Iola Harrell of Mt. Vernon; daughters Ruth Williams of Mt. Vernon, and Luetta Roberson and husband Rick of Dix; grandchildren Stefan Williams and wife Kim of Sesser, Clichelle Poole and husband Todd of Mt. Vernon, Rickey Roberson and wife Stacy of Mt. Vernon, and Stacey Belcher and husband Greg of Mt. Vernon; great grandchildren Shane, Jessica and Kevin Williams, Kamden and Kylie Poole, Courtney and Jacob Roberson, Ashley Crane and Morgan Belcher; and several nieces and nephews also survive.

His parents, two brothers, four sisters and great grandson Stanley Ryan Poole preceded him in death.

Ray was a U.S. Army Veteran of World War II and was Methodist by faith. His family was the most important part of his life.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the care of Hughey Funeral Home, where you may call 242-3348 or visit www.hugheyfuneralhome1969.com for further information.

Source: Mt. Vernon Register-News
Date: January 5, 2007
Submitted by Robert W. Loman