E. Kenneth Harrell

Elton Kenneth Harrell (Ken) passed away Monday, May 26th, 2025, at Duke Medical Center.

Ken was born August 2nd, 1934. He was the son of the late Joseph and Juanita Harrell. Ken spent most of his childhood in Picayune, Mississippi. He was preceded in death by his parents, and his siblings –Jack Harrell, James Harrell, Margaret Stewart, Dorothy Boegner, Charles Harrell and J.W Harrell. .

Ken was a 1952 graduate of Picayune High School, where he was president of the senior class. After high school, he joined the US Navy. Following basic training, Ken attended the Naval School of Music. During this time he was stationed in San Juan as well as on the USS Midway. Ken served as a musician in the Navy for 4 years, playing the trombone and the baritone.

After his military service, Ken pursued a degree in Organ Performance from Mississippi College, graduating in 1961. After receiving his bachelor’s degree, Ken went on to attend graduate school at New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary where he received a Master’s degree in Church Music.

After completing his education, He served as Minister of Music and Organist/Choirmaster at several churches, most notably at Watts Street Baptist Church in Durham NC. He also worked as a piano technician from the late 1980’s until he retired.

Ken loved God, his family, his church, flower gardening, music and UNC sports. He enjoyed fishing with his three sons and close friend, Bob McClernon, and Ken had a love of reading. Even after he lost most of his vision, Ken could often be found in his recliner, listening to audio books. In his later years, he would sit on his front porch with his wife, Eleanor and their dog Honey to watch folks pass by and visit with those that had a moment to chat. Ken had the gift of making those around him feel at ease with an inviting smile and open heart. He could always make you laugh, even when times were tough. He was generous to a fault and was always more concerned with others’ feelings than he was with his own. Ken was an amazing husband, father, grandfather and friend. He was an extraordinary man and he will be sorely missed by everyone that had the pleasure of meeting him.

Ken is survived by his loving wife of 60 years Eleanor Harrell; his sons Clark Harrell (Jennifer), Michael Harrell (Kristel) and John Harrell (Marsha) & his grandchildren Kaitlynn Graves (Cameron), Andy Harrell, Chase Harrell and Amanda Harrell.

The memorial service will be held at Watts Street Baptist Church, Durham NC on Saturday, May 31st at 2:00pm

Memorials may be made to Watts Street Baptist Church, 800 Watts Street Durham NC, 27701. Please direct any contributions to the Music Fund or the Missions Fund.