Minnie Harrell

Minnie Harrell obituary, Blue Springs, MO

Minnie Harrell

Minnie Harrell Obituary

Visit the Speaks Suburban Chapel website to view the full obituary.

Minnie Harrell, lovingly remembered as a beacon of kindness and warmth, passed away on August 8, 2025 surrounded by love. Born on June 17, 1933, she filled her years with a profound commitment to her family, embodying the values of love and compassion that defined her life.

Before embarking on the cherished journey of motherhood, Minnie, known by her maiden name Raccuglia, worked at BMA. However, it was her dream to become a mother and homemaker that truly defined her legacy. With unwavering dedication, she embraced her role, becoming not only the best mother but also a beloved grandmother. Her family was not just her pride but the cornerstone of her life.

Her passions came to life in her gardens, where she found joy in trimming bushes and flowers. Being in nature brought her happiness, and she often shared that joy through her cooking, renowned for her delicious lasagna made with homemade sauce and her delightful Italian sugar cookies. Minnie was close to her siblings, maintaining strong bonds throughout her life with her brother and sisters, especially Mickey.

Minnie is survived by Her legacy endures through her loving family, including her son Gregory and daughter-in-law Kathy Harrell, granddaughter Ashley and husband Jacob Boone, grandson Zachary Harrell, and her cherished great-grandchildren, Jaelyn Katherine and Grayson James Boone, her beloved brother Joseph Raccuglia and his wife June, as well as her sisters Mickey Gilliland, Ann Burns, and Phyllis Moderson and her husband Marty. She is preceded in death by her devoted husband, Forrest Harrell; her daughter, Debra Sharitz; and her infant son, Gary Harrell, her brothers-in-law Joe Gilliland and Bill Burns.

Minnie Harrell’s life was a life filled with love, dedication, and an unwavering commitment to her family. Her memory will live on in the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to know her, forever reminding us of the beauty of a life well-lived and uniquely celebrated.

Celebration of Life for Minnie and Forrest will be held at Greg and Kathy Harrell's residence on Saturday, September 13 from 12:00pm - 2:00pm.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Speaks Suburban Chapel

18020 E. 39th St. S, Independence, MO 64055

Make a Donation
in Minnie Harrell's name

How to support Minnie's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.

The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.

Read more
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

Read more
The Five Stages of Grief

They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.

Read more
Ways to honor Minnie Harrell's life and legacy
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

Read more