Douglas Harrell Obituary

Harrell Sr., Douglas Alan 03/17/1953 ~ 05/23/2015 SAN DIEGO -- Douglas Alan Harrell Sr. was a lifelong educator and a student of humanity. He was a sociologist (he completed undergraduate and graduate school at the University of California, San Diego) and leader in education with over forty years of experience. Mr. Harrell strove to work in communities impacted by histories of neglect and degradation. He saw these communities as filled with love, possibility, and dreams. Starting as an elementary school teacher, he taught his students to beware of the "self-fulfilling prophecy," a grinning little imp who appears when words like, "I can't" are spoken. Moving into administration, e.g., as Race and Human Relations Facilitator, he fought for social justice. Later, as a primary then secondary school Principal in East Palo Alto, San Francisco, and San Diego, his philosophy of "compassionate leadership" catalyzed students to achieve. Subsequently, he held a Vice President position at Edison Schools Inc. supervising principals throughout California. Edison initiated offering him a national position, but he returned to San Diego instead because of his love for his family. He retired from King- Chávez Community Schools as Chief Academic Officer in 2013, but continued teaching and inspiring school leaders by founding an Administrative Credentialing Program for the San Diego County Office of Education and supporting charter school start-ups. In his last days he was flooded with sentiments from those whose lives he transformed. We must mention his love for basketball. Profoundly gifted, he made it to summer tryouts for the NBA before enduring a knee injury. Basketball took him to college. Hailing from the Point Breeze neighborhood of Pittsburgh, he was a true seeker. We must agree now that the NBA's loss was society's gain. He conducted his life with twinkling eyes, a smiling face, and inspirational words. Let us now all strive for the greatness and love that are his legacy. We can create our own destinies. To quote his final words: "Play ball!" Mr. Harrell transitioned after a heroic battle with cancer on May 23rd, 2015 peacefully at night and surrounded by family. He is survived by his mother, three of his siblings, four children, two grandchildren, and many loving family members. We could not be prouder of him. He will always be loved and missed.

Published by San Diego Union-Tribune on May 31, 2015.
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Memories and Condolences
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Doug, a good friend, brother in the Lord, and beloved colleague. He continues to be a great inspiration. His is a true legacy of love. He embodied kindness, caring, patience, integrity, respect, truth, dedication, joy, humor, and hope. His shoes no one can fill. He is truly one of the most wonderful human beings to ever walk upon this planet. A man who had so much to give and live for. We were all robbed with his passing. I will treasure his smile, his words of wisdom, and his incredible love for humanity. His leadership skills were beyond amazing. He is one of the greatest leaders of our time. His most recent leadership role was as Vice President of the Board of Beacon Classical Academy Charter School in National City. The staff and students of Beacon honor his memory with gratitude for the privilege of knowing him. We love you Doug!

Dr. Alma Van Nice

August 16, 2015

Hello, I was sorry to hear about Mr. Harrell passing. My deepest condolences to your family. I was one of his caregivers at UCSD. When I told the other members that he passed they were as sad to hear it as I was. Mr. Harrell has such style and grace. He was a very kindhearted individual and we all really like him a lot. He always had a smile or a wink for us. Our hearts go out to you. Sandy UCSD South Bay

June 14, 2015

I would like to give the Harrell family my deepest condolences. Mr. Harrell was a great mentor and friend to me. He hired me at King-Chavez Preparatory Academy. His wisdom, dedication and honesty was brought on a daily basis. His heart was as big as his smile. His love of students and their education drove him to do great things in our organization. He taught us that every student has a chance to be great! It was our job to get them going in the right direction. While visiting him in his final days, he still brought that great smile and told us all that he was blessed. I would like to say that I was blessed to have known him and his guidance will live on through all he has touched. You are and will always be "the best and brightest this world has to offer".

Anthony Johnson

June 7, 2015

Condolences to the Harrell family. I remember Doug from Mead Elementary. he was a great person. Sandra H. Jackson

June 7, 2015

I had the honor of working with Mr. Harrell at King Chavez. I have never met such a dedicated and caring man. He always had a smile and hug to give when he greeted the staff and students. I am honored to work with someone who touched so many lives. You will be greatly missed Mr. Harrell. Oxox RIP

J Haynes

June 4, 2015

Doug was such a wonderful person and friend to my family. He will be missed. The Beaton Family.

Kelly Shepard

June 4, 2015

We have lost a true humanitarian, an outstanding educator and a role model to so many. I am honored to have worked with Doug in many capacities over the years and I mourn his departure from this earth. Doug lived his faith and stood for social justice at every juncture. Godspeed, Doug. You have left the world a better place through all that you have done for children and families. Rest in Peace.

Dennis Doyle

June 4, 2015

My deepest sentiments to all of Doug's family. I met him once at his retirement party, and was struck by the outpouring of love and affection by all who attended. He was a special man.
Marvin Gary Gilmore

June 3, 2015

Doug is now Resting With God & Elite Group of Family & Friends!

Kathy Durant

June 1, 2015

I was Very saddened to read of Doug's passing. Doug was a great teammate on the UCSD basketball team.

He always had a wonderful smile and a caring soft voice. Doug was a gentleman by any measure. He always had a loving spirit surrounding him and he was always willing to assist his fellow man.

We have all lost a great man.

My thoughts and prayers go out to all his family.

Bob Frazier UCSD 1979

Bob Frazier

June 1, 2015

Mr. Harrell was an awesome teacher and person. The world is a better place because you were in it.

Shawn

June 1, 2015

I was deeply saddened to read the news of Doug's death. He and I worked together on the Race/Human Relations Team, where we developed a professional friendship and shared a love for equity, access and basketball. His ever smiling disposition was seen by all. Those of us who knew him well, learned so much about his giving heart. The world has lost a gentleman, a scholar, and teacher. I am proud to say he was my teammate.
The R/HR pin we wore showed a map of the globe and the logo "Together We Make A Difference!" Indeed, you did that Doug! Rest in Peace!

Renee Rowan

May 31, 2015

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