Paul Daniel Harrell

Paul Daniel Harrell, 90, went to be with his Lord and Savior on July 2, 2026.

He was born at home in rural Rankin County on September 14, 1935, to Edward and Daisy Harrell. Paul graduated from Pisgah High School and Mississippi College with a bachelor's degree in 1959. He married Sarah Maurer in 1957, and they shared over 54 years of marriage before her passing in 2012. Paul earned a Master of Religious Education from New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary in 1961.

Paul dedicated his life to ministry, serving as Minister of Education at Highland Baptist Church and First Baptist Church in Louisville, Mississippi. He held leadership roles in the Mississippi Baptist Convention and was instrumental in founding Mississippi Baptist Disaster Relief, which responded to major disasters including the Utica tornadoes, Pearl River flood, Mexico City earthquake, and the 9/11 attacks.

He retired in 2001 but continued to serve in missions until 2017. Paul was active in his church and religious education organizations, leaving a legacy of faith and service. He is survived by his children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and siblings. Paul will be deeply missed but is at peace with his Savior.