George Harrell

George Harrell was an acclaimed and accomplished photographer renowned for his ability to capture celebrities of his era.

He had an admirable work ethic and rarely took a day off. His talents extended to dirt work with a dozer or excavator as well as woodworking.

Early Life and Education

Early experiences for children are crucial in their development. Their quality of relationships with parents and other primary caregivers will ultimately shape who they become as individuals.

George Herrell was born to Roy and Hazel Marion (Culver) Harrell on June 26, 1922 in Rio Grande City, Texas to Roy who served in the cavalry during World War I and worked as a ranch hand. His mother passed away in 1924.

He was a graduate of Rio Grande City High School and received his bachelor’s degree in agriculture from Texas A&M University. Subsequently, he pursued a master’s degree in education at the University of Wisconsin.

He later relocated to Madison, Wisconsin and married Maline Robinson in 1966. They had two sons – Adrian and Damon. Additionally, he served as high school football coach at Monona Grove High School.

Professional Career

Herrell made a name for himself in baseball. A major leaguer, he spent three seasons with the Indians and one with the Boston Red Sox.

He had an illustrious career and earned himself the reputation as one of the great shortstops in baseball. His superb hands and fielding ability earned him praise from Kerby Farrell, his manager in Reading and Cleveland; who described him as “one of the game’s greatest shortstops”.

After his professional baseball career, Herrell went on to serve as a juvenile probation officer with the New York Department of Corrections for 25 years. His dedication and unselfish nature enabled him to help his young charges reach their full potentials and make an enduring impact in their lives. Herrell truly made a difference.

Achievements and Honors

George Harrell was a decorated soldier in the United States Marine Corps during World War II and earned himself the Silver Star for his bravery and intrepidity in battle against Nazi Germany.

Harrell served in the military from Hawaii to Saipan and Iwo Jima, earning him the Medal of Honor during that campaign for his determination in halting Japanese advances despite losing one hand and receiving multiple saber cuts.

He also photographed album covers for Cass Elliot, Helen Reddy, Tom Waits and Fleetwood Mac.

Personal Life

George Herrell had a wide range of interests and hobbies, from reading to science and nature studies, politics, history, music to literature and food.

He had a deep passion for both theology and writing, which led him to teach highschool classes online and contribute articles to several websites.

Throughout his life, he and his wife Mary traveled the globe to discover both the natural splendor of our world, as well as the art of great masters. He was an exemplary father, husband and grandfather.

He dedicated his life to serving others and loved spending time with his family. Survived by his wife Mary; daughter Kathleen Gaither (Donald); son Greg; and granddaughter Laura Herrell, he will be deeply missed by his family and friends alike. He had a cool sense of humor which everyone around him appreciated.