Blake Harrell

Blake Harrell, 65, of Waco, passed away peacefully at Methodist Dallas Medical Center Friday, August 29, 2025.

Blake's Celebration of Life will be held at 1:00 p.m. Friday, September 12, at Renew Church in Waco. There will be a visitation for family and friends from 5:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. Thursday, September 11, in the chapel at Wilkirson-Hatch-Bailey Funeral Home.

Blake Harrell lived with a spirit that was always in motion. Born in Waco, Texas, he grew up a mischievous child whose laughter filled his family’s home. He carried that laughter with him throughout his life—stubborn, softhearted, and full of joy.

Blake never met a stranger. Whether with lifelong friends from childhood or clients who soon became family, he carried an easy gift for connection. He wanted to know people’s stories, remember their names, and care for their families as if they were his own. His work as an insurance agent was more than a career—it was another way of loving people well.

He found freedom outdoors: mountain biking down trails, gliding across the water in a kayak, or standing still behind a camera, waiting for a bird to take flight. He delighted in cooking for holidays, making homemade fudge at Christmas, and gathering loved ones close around the table. His laugh was loud and unmistakable, and his generous heart was never far from the surface.

Blake leaves behind his wife, Michelle Harrell; his father, Joe Ed Harrell; his brother and sister-in-law, Brad and Melissa Harrell; his sons and their spouses, Tanner and Lunden Harrell, and Chase Harrell and Erik Scheets; his stepdaughter, Taylor Charette; his former wife, Missy Harrell; and three beautiful grandchildren who knew him as “Grumpa”—Eleanor, Brooklyn, and Walker. He was preceded in death by his mother, Joyce Harrell.

He will be remembered not only for the life he lived, but for the way he made others feel: encouraged, seen, and loved. His joy was contagious, his presence unforgettable.

The family invites you to leave a message or memory of Blake in his memorial guestbook at www.WHBfamily.com.

To cherish Blake’s memory, a complimentary memorial keepsake of your choice is available here: Memorial Keepsake