Willie Harrell

Willie Harrell know as “Bruh” was born on December 20, 1947, in Salem, Alabama, to his late parents, Will and Rosa Lee Harrell. He was one of nine children born to this loving union. In 1955, the family relocated to Detroit, Michigan, where Willie grew up surrounded by the values of faith, family, and hard work that would guide him throughout his life.

Willie gave his life to the Lord at Bethel Church of Apostolic Faith in Detroit Michigan, where he found great joy and purpose in his faith. Some of his most cherished moments were spent sitting at the kitchen table with his beloved Aunt Honey, talking about the goodness of the Lord and sharing his love for God. His faith was the foundation of his life and a source of strength for those around him. 

Willie built a successful career as a truck driver, dedicating over 30 years to the profession he loved. He began his career with Cassens Transport Company, where his commitment, and passion for the open road were evident to all who worked with him.

After the passing of his first wife, Willie found love again and later married Karen Fadis. Together, they shared a bond built on faith and continued building memories with family and friends. Willie was the proud father of two children, his son Michael D. Harrell and daughter Ebony M. Harrell. His family and his grandchildren were his greatest joy, and he poured his heart into loving and supporting them.

A man of quiet strength, humility, and unwavering faith, Willie’s life was a testament to his kind and selfless nature. His warm smile and compassionate heart left a lasting impression on everyone who knew him.

On January 11, 2025, Willie S. Harrell earned his wings to glory, just shy of his 77th birthday. Willie was a devoted husband, a loving father, a proud grandfather, a cherished brother, a caring uncle, cousin and a faithful servant of the Lord. Though our hearts are heavy with loss, we find comfort in knowing he is now in the presence of the Lord he served so faithfully.

He leaves cherish able memories to his wife Karen Harrell of 14 years, his children Michael D. Harrell and Ebony M. Harrell, grandchildren Jimmie Turner III, Michael Jr., Jamison and Corrde Harrell.

Bonus daughters in-love Lakisha Calloway (Stephen), and Napry Dawson.

Sisters Mary Malory, Bernice Steverson (Eddie); Anita “Nett” Harrell and Teresa Harrell.

Proceeded in death his two brothers Robert Harrell and Louis Harrell (Yvonne); three sisters: Linda Speight, Josephine Williams, Sarah Rowan.

He also leaves a host of nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles and cousins, bonus grandkids, in-laws, and mother/father in-love Mary & Harry Batte.