"Pete" Peter John Harrell

Peter J. Harrell, age 78, was raised in Sweetwater, TN, and was a longtime resident of Englewood, TN, passed peacefully on May 4, 2025, at the home of his sister, Dee Moore. As a believer in Jesus Christ, he is now healed and in the presence of the Lord.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Walton R. and Margaret Harrell, and his brother, Donnie E. Harrell. He is survived by his sisters, Dee (Gary) Moore and Betty (Dennis) Hicks of Riceville, TN; his brother Jackie K. Harrell of Sweetwater, TN; and best friend whom he considered his brother, Ray “Sleepy” Grant. He is also lovingly remembered by many nieces and nephews.

Pete served in the U.S. Army with military honors and after serving he attended Tennessee Wesleyan College where he studied education. He then dedicated 40 years to Athens City Schools. He touched thousands of lives with compassion, humor, and the gift of encouragement.

Pete’s family is deeply grateful for the love shown by all who became apart of his journey.

Please bring quarters to the visitation and funeral to honor Pete’s magic quarter tricks. He always pulled coins out of the ears of all the children that adored him. All of the quarters will be donated to the McMinn County Educational and Community Foundation in his honor.

“Well done, good and faithful servant.”

In lieu of flowers, the family memorial contributions can be sent to a Peter J. Harrell Scholarship fund at Tennessee Wesleyan University to:
Pete Harrell Scholarship
Attn: Office of Advancement
204 E. College Street
Athens, TN 37303
Or by clicking the link below:


https://fundraise.givesmart.com/form/H-J2cA?vid=1jcy0l

Funeral services will be 4:00 PM Saturday, May 10, 2025 in the chapel of Laycock-Hobbs Funeral Home. The interment will follow at Sweetwater Valley Memorial Park.  The family will receive friends from 2:00 PM- 4:00 PM prior to the service.

Those unable to attend may leave condolences for the family https://www.laycock-hobbs.com/obituaries/Peter-Harrell

Laycock-Hobbs Funeral Home in charge of the arrangements.