Henrietta Harrell

Henrietta Harrell, affectionately known as “Rietta”, 89 years old, died peacefully in the home of her daughter and son in law on May 23, 2018 with her family and friends by her side. Henrietta was born on July 21, 1928 to Thomas and Lucille James in Dothan, Alabama. She grew up in a God-fearing Christian home with her two brothers John Charles Woods and Earl Howard Woods, both of whom preceded her in death. Although born in Dothan, Alabama, at an early age she move to Chicago, Illinois and eventually to Detroit, Michigan where she made her home and met the love of her life, Edward Clarence Harrell, affectionately known as “EC”. Detroit, Michigan was also where Henrietta accepted Christ at an early age at the Mount Pleasant Missionary Baptist Church, where she began a life of service and ministry. She was a devoted member for several years and served faithfully on the usher board. Later she joined the Antioch Missionary Baptist Church in Pontiac, MI where she continued her service by serving on the Mother’s Board. She carried her mission of service to Las Vegas, Nevada in 2008 and joined Victory Missionary Baptist Church, where she was involved in the “Keenagers” senior ministry. Henrietta was the matriarch of the family, she nurtured and loved all that knew her. She was faithful, hard-working and enjoyed helping people in all aspects of both her personal and professional life. Her professional career began after she completed beauty school. She was a hairstylist for 15 years. She then found her true calling and decided to work for the State of Michigan, as a Resident Care Aide from 1967 to1992. Henrietta continued to care for people in need even when she move to Nevada, as a Home Care Aide until her health began to fail in July of 2017. Henrietta was full of life and loved her family, friends and patients. In 2017, her kindness was rewarded as she was the recipient of the Mother’s Day surprise award sponsored by the Las Vegas Channel 5 Surprise Squad. In addition to helping others, her favorite past time was shopping, not only for herself, but for others. She loved life and people. Henrietta would always say. “I live the life I love and love the life I live!” She was a true gem. Henrietta was preceded in death by her parents Thomas and Lucille James Rhodes, her loving stepfather Charles Rhodes, 2 brothers, her husband Edward Clarence Harrell (EC), her son Leon, special daughters Judith Harrell and Janice Willis, and her grandson Keith Sirron James. Henrietta is survived by her son Michael James of Detroit, MI, daughter Rhonda (Frederick)Fortier of Henderson, NV, 4 grandchildren, 11 great grandchildren, 8 great great grandchildren and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family, and friends, including her best/dearest friend Adrine Trotter.

Henrietta Harrell

July 21, 1928 - May 23, 2018