Lester S. Harrell, Jr.

Lester Sidney “Les” Harrell, Jr., 96, of Sedalia, passed away Wednesday, December 10, 2025, at E.W. Thompson Health & Rehab Center.

He was born August 10, 1929, in Sedalia, the son of Lester Sidney Harrell, Sr. and Bessie (Gearhart) Harrell. On July 2, 1954, in Sedalia, he married Julia “Judy” Blaine, who preceded him in death on February 19, 2025.

Les was a 1947 graduate of Smith-Cotton High School. He began working for the Sedalia Democrat at age nine as a paperboy alongside his brother, Jim. Over the years, he advanced through the organization and ultimately served as production manager until retiring in 1990. While working nights at the newspaper, he also built houses during the day, reflecting his strong work ethic and commitment to providing for his family.

He served 21 years of active duty and six years of inactive service in the Army National Guard, retiring at the rank of Captain.

Les was committed to his community. He served 22 years on the Sedalia City Council and contributed his time to the Police Personnel Board and the Pettis County Ambulance Board. He also worked as an on-the-scene reporter for KDRO for many years.

Survivors include his daughter, Brenda Buckner (Terry), and his son, Lester S. “Sid” Harrell III, both of Sedalia; a grandson, Leslie Harrell (Tiffany), of Greenwood, MO; two granddaughters, Ja’Nae Buckner (Andres), of Sedalia, and Ca’Teesia Spencer, of Houston, TX; 11 great-grandchildren; four great-great-grandchildren; his sister-in-law, Alberta Young, of Sedalia; his sister, Betty Joann Brewer, of St. Charles, MO; and several nieces and nephews.

In addition to his wife and parents, he was preceded in death by his brother, Jim Harrell.

The family will receive friends from 1:00 to 2:00 p.m. Monday, December 15, 2025, at Heckart Funeral Home, where funeral services will begin at 2:00 p.m.

Burial with military honors will follow in Crown Hill Cemetery.

Memorial contributions are suggested to the Sedalia D.A.R.E. program.