James "Buddy" Harrell, a beloved father, brother, and friend, passed away peacefully on November 27, 2024, in Pinetown, North Carolina, at the age of 94. Born on April 26, 1930, in Beaufort County, North Carolina, Buddy lived a long, full, and storied life, enriched by unbelievable anecdotes and tales that he loved to share with those around him.

Buddy's professional journey was as varied as it was distinguished. He began his career in cosmetology, where he owned and operated Harrell's Beauty Salon in multiple locations across North Carolina. His exceptional skills and dedication to the craft led him to become the Department Head of Cosmetology at Beaufort County Community College. He was recognized as an Outstanding Educator in Hair Design/Cosmetology by Who’s Who South/Southwest.

Beyond his work in beauty, Buddy spent half a decade at sea, operating the shrimp boat "Sea Quest" from New Jersey to the Gulf of Mexico. His adventures continued in Florida, where he successfully ran a landscaping business before returning to North Carolina to manage Mom's Grill. The latter half of his professional life was devoted to the Bennett Vineyard and Winery, where he spent 30 years as a co-owner and Wine Master, cementing his legacy as part of the second generation of winemakers and the fourth generation of Harrells involved in catering and the restaurant business.

A man of varied interests and commitments, Buddy was actively involved in his community. He was a past member of the Washington Chamber of Commerce, a member of the Toastmaster’s Club, and a charter member of both the Washington Country Club and the Pines Country Club. His commitment to service extended to the Elks Lodge and the Loyal Order of the Moose, where he was a charter member. As a former president of the NC Hairdressers Association, he left an indelible mark on the field of cosmetology.

Buddy was also a proud veteran, honorably discharged from the Navy. He was certified in advanced hairstyling and cosmetic chemistry, skills that supported his esteemed career in education and salon ownership.

Buddy lived a life full of remarkable experiences, including being in Cuba during the onset of Fidel Castro's revolution and witnessing the maiden voyage of the Howard Hughes-designed H-4 Hercules, famously known as the "Spruce Goose," entirely by chance while walking along the beach.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Matthew Harrell and Annie Gibson Harrell; his son, Keith Harrell; infant daughter, Karen Harrell; brother, Gerald "Chip" Harrell; sister, Ophelia Dixon; and sister, Joan Nichols. He is survived by his daughters, Myra Harrell Fleming of Portland, Oregon, and Kathy Moore of Washington, NC; sons, James A. Harrell Jr. of Bear Grass, NC, and Laurie Stocks of Pinetown, NC; daughter, Terri Harrell of Pinetown, NC; and sister, Peggy Woolard of Wilmington, DE.

Visitation will be held on Saturday, November 30, 2024, at Joseph B. Paul Jr. Funeral Service from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. A private family burial will follow.

Buddy's legacy is one of love, adventure, and dedication to his many pursuits. He touched the lives of all who knew him and will be dearly missed by his family, friends, and community.

Joseph B. Paul Jr. Funeral Service is honored to assist the Harrell Family