Gerald Allen Harrell, (Jerry), a loyal husband, father, grandpa and friend, passed away in Bakersfield, Calif., on March 19, 2013, with his wife by his side.

He was born in Hammond, Indiana, on Feb. 10, 1941, to James Russell and Cletus Jeanelle Constance Harrell. He graduated valedictorian and joined the military out of high school, serving mainly in Turkey and Germany. After the military Jerry went to work in the oilfield, working in several different states.

In 1971 he married Margarett Stubbs Nichols. They were later sealed in the Provo, Utah, LDS Temple. Together they raised eight children making their home in Vernal, Utah. In 1977 they started their own business buying and selling oilfield equipment and Jerry remained self-employed for the remainder of his life.

Jerry is survived by his wife, Margarett Stubbs Harrell; children Larry Wayne Nichols of Reno, Nev., Ricky Vernon Nichols, Jackie Lynn Nichols of Salt Lake City, Utah, Cindy Michelle Phillips, Gerald Allen Harrell Jr. Ritchie James Harrell and Katrisha Harrell; 13 grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.

Jerry was a hardworking, intelligent and honest man, and a wonderful provider to a large family who he loved unconditionally. Words cannot express the thanks from those whose lives he touched with his genuine character.

Funeral services at the Blackburn Vernal Mortuary.   Burial in the Vernal Memorial Park with military honors by the American Legion Post 124 and 11 and the Utah Army National Guard.

Published in Vernal Express, The (UT) ~ Wednesday, March 27, 2013