Jack Harrell Lakeland, FL Death: LAKELAND — Jack Randolph Harrell Jr., a community philanthropist widely known for his humble generosity, died Saturday at age 68 of brain cancer. Harrell, CEO and chairman of Harrell’s LLC, was diagnosed with glioblastoma, an aggressive form of brain cancer, roughly six months ago.
Tribute from City Officials
“I want to recognize the loss of a local hero in Jack Harrell, who passed away over the weekend, and want to take a moment to honor his life and legacy, his character and generosity,” Commissioner Stephanie Madden said at Monday’s City Commission meeting. “As a loving father and husband and community champion of so many worthy causes, he leaves an indelible imprint on all of our hearts as well as our city.”
Family and Legacy
Harrell is survived by his wife, Tina, son Jack Harrell III, and son Will Harrell and his wife, Julia. Harrell has three grandsons, Holton, Wells, and John Owen Harrell. Harrell’s, a Lakeland-based producer and distributor of fertilizer and other agricultural chemicals, announced the passing of its leader on its website Saturday.
Family’s Statement
“My family is saddened by the loss of my father, but we rejoice that he has gone home to Glory and is not in any more pain and suffering any longer. His body had been restored and he is at peace,” reads a statement from Jack Harrell III. “My father was a great man who took care of so many people. Everyone else was always his main concern, rather than himself. We will all miss him but are so happy that he is rejoicing in Heaven.”
Leadership at Harrell’s LLC
A Lakeland native, Harrell Jr. graduated from Georgia Southern College and returned to the city to join his father’s business in 1978 — which at the time consisted of Harrell’s Feed Store in downtown Lakeland and several Harrell’s Garden Centers.
Transforming the Business
Harrell worked alongside his father to transform the local family-owned business into a worldwide leader in agronomic solutions. It started with the construction of the company’s first manufacturing plant off New Tampa Highway in the mid-1980s, which still serves as its corporate headquarters.
Remembering Jack Harrell
As the community mourns the loss of Jack Harrell, his contributions and generosity will continue to be felt. His legacy of philanthropy, leadership, and dedication to family and community sets a lasting example for all who knew him.
