AHOSKIE, NC – Burnell Harrell McKeel, age 89, passed away on Tuesday, September 25, 2018 at the Accordius Health at Creekside Care of Ahoskie, NC.
Burnell was born on November 24, 1928 to Joseph Cephus and Velna Rawls Harrell in Hertford County, NC. Burnell married Wallace McKeel, Sr. in 1947 and together they established McKeels Jewelry in 1950. They spent a life of happiness together, taking every opportunity they could ballroom dancing together. She enjoyed cooking for her family, however she loved going out to eat as much as possible.
Besides her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband of seventy-one years, Wallace Overton McKeel, Sr., a sister, Vivian Harrington and two brothers, Clemon Harrell and Joseph Edward “Eddie” Harrell.
Burnell is survived by her two sons, Wallace Overton McKeel, Jr. and wife Christine of Ahoskie, NC, and Robbin Keith McKeel and wife Lydia of Hampstead, NC; two grandchildren, Taylor McKeel of Knoxville, TN and Trevor McKeel of Hampstead, NC, a step-grandson, Lawson Marsh of Ahoskie; a sister, Inez Harrell Bracy of Hillsborough, NC; and many nieces and nephews.
A celebration of life graveside service will be held on Thursday, October 4, 2018, at 11:00 am at Highland Memorial Gardens, Ahoskie, NC, with Reverend Anita Thompson, officiating.
Garrett-Sykes Funeral Service – Ahoskie Chapel is handling the arrangements for the McKeel family and online condolences can be directed to the family by visiting www.garrettsykesfs.com.
We are so sorry to hear of your loss. Please know that you are in our thoughts and prayers.
Aunt Burrell was a very special person. I always loved being with her when we visited in NC. I remember a lot of times when I was a young girl how much I enjoyed listening to her tell stories., loved her voice!! I feel so fortunate that I was able to see her just a few weeks ago when we were in NC. So sorry I missed Wallace at that time, he had left the nursing home and I found out he passed away a couple days after we were there. I thought Aunt Burrell looked good the day we were there, she did know who I was and the visit was very special to me especially since she’s passed so soon after that. Continued prayers for comfort and strength during this time for the family!
mrs burnell was a great lady well love by everyone no matter who it was she would do anything she could to help you if she could she will be missed we love you all earl linda april lee futrell
Wally, Robbin and your families, I have missed seeing your mom in the jewelry store whenever I was home visiting. She was such a friendly lady. I always enjoyed talking with her, usually about her boys or dancing with your dad. She will be missed. I’m so sorry for your loss.
I had the chance to help her in her last days at her I stay with her for a couple of days until she got real sick and I had to call 911 to help her . She was a sweet heart I forever chresih that I got to spend some days with her me and her had a good time . She will deeply be miss by me .. I will be keeping the family in prayers .. sending every one a big hug yall had a great mom ..
Aunt Burnell was a very special person to me..She even came to my 40th day ..loved my sons and talk with me about them every time we chatted ..she is forever in my heart..RIP
My condolences to the family. Y’all are in my thoughts and prayers.
Mrs. McKeel will be greatly missed. My condolences to the family. May God give you comfort during this most difficult time.
My second Momma♡ I will always cherish our memories together at home ♡ I am so blessed to have witnessed a miracle last month when we were able to spend time together reminiscing ♡ I know you and Daddy are dancing in heaven right now. I will forever love you both. Thank you for having such a positive impact on my life!
She was one special lady I know she will be missed by the family and all my prayers go out to all the family may God be with each and every one at this special time