William Robert “Bobby” Harrell, 68, passed away on July 21, 2021. The son of the late William R. Harrell and Orduna L. Harrell, Bobby was married to his wife, Linda Harvey Harrell, for 45 years. They have two children, Morgan Harrell (Ricky Northcutt) and Robert Harrell (Bonnie), and two grandchildren, Huck and Elloree. He is survived by one brother, Craig Harrell (Gina), and was predeceased by a sister, Debbie Livingston (Jim). Much loved extended family includes Zach and Katie Northcutt, Jessica and Thomas, and so many cousins, nieces and nephews.

 

It seems fitting that Bobby went out of the world just as he lived his life – at full speed. After visiting with a soon-to-be-retired bird dog that was preparing for a new life of luxury at Oakfire, Bobby hit a tree that had fallen across the road. We like to think his last view of the Blue House Swamp with its wood storks, ibis, and egrets may have given him a few moments of lasting peace.

 

Bobby was born and raised in Columbia. In the woods at Fort Jackson and in rural south Georgia, he discovered his love of hunting and fishing. It was “in his blood” he told his mother and something he just felt he had to do. He attended A.C. Flora High School and then Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College in Tifton, Georgia. His years at ABAC include many stories of bull rides, chicken houses and the infamous castration of the stallion. After college, he worked for the S.C. Wildlife Department then the U.S. Forest Service, Enoree District. For 17 years, he and Linda lived in Newberry where they enjoyed time with many wonderful friends, particularly those within The Chappells Sporting Society.

 

In 1990, the Harrells moved to Walterboro where Bobby joined Folk Land Management. With the purchase of their own land in Hendersonville, the family soon made the Lowcountry their home. Just a short time after the completion of their new house, Bobby was paralyzed in a diving accident in 1993. As expected, his pace did not change, and it wasn’t long before Bobby was back in the woods “moving forward” in his own way. He was always willing to share how he made life work for him with those newly injured as well as those training in the medical field to help people with injuries. Without a doubt, the perspective he brought to his injury – optimism, determination and humor – have impacted so many over the years.

 

Bobby was at his best outside. He was happiest listening for that gobble, watching the doves over the cornfield or looking for a glimpse of an antler along the wood line. He loved being out in the extreme temperatures, testing his mettle against the elements – frozen beard and shivering dog – searching the sky for cupped ducks. His time afield with friends and family, especially those new to hunting, was considered sacred. Bobby loved being out there but loved sharing it even more. We are so very grateful for the time we had to know him and to love him and especially to be loved by him.

 

Please join us to celebrate his life on Tuesday, July 27, 2021 at Dogwood Hills Golf Club, 1 Dogwood Lane, Walterboro, S.C., from 3 to 6 p.m. We will gather to laugh, share stories and remember this dear man we were lucky enough to have in our lives. Dress is casual – khakis, duck boots and camo are just fine.

 

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to a wildlife conservation organization of your choice to include National Deer Association (formerly QDMA) and South Carolina Waterfowl Association, both of which Bobby had been a part of for many years. There also are many organizations that help folks get in the field after an injury – The KT Team and ROAR Outdoors are two Bobby supported.

 

Arrangements by: THE BRICE W. HERNDON AND SONS FUNERAL HOMES AND CREMATORY, WALTERBORO CHAPEL, 1193 Bells Highway, Walterboro, 843.538.5408.  Visit the registry online at: www.briceherndonfuneralhome.com.