Obituary of James Roy Herrell
James Roy Herrell was born in Middlesboro, Kentucky on June 25, 1943. Roy as he lovingly became known, was one of eleven children. He was the son of the late Thurmon Herrell and the late Emily (Ervin) Herrell. Roy would serve his country honorably during the Vietnam War obtaining the rank of Staff Sergeant. He would later earn his GED.
Roy wasn’t afraid of hard work, and for many years he supported himself as a laborer in the packaging industry.
As a young man, Roy was well-known for his wild side. This parlayed into being quite laid back as he matured. Roy enjoyed spending time with family, especially with his brother-in-law: Bud. He enjoyed telling jokes and often looked forward to lively card games of rummy and poker.
When he had time to himself, Roy, liked to watch a little television and his favorite show was that of Gunsmoke. He also enjoyed his country music, doing his best to sing-along with his preferred artist, Hank Willliams, Jr.
James Roy Herrell, age 76, of Monroe passed away at 1:45pm on Monday; February 3, 2020 at Medilodge of Monroe. In addition to his parents his passing was preceded by two sisters: Lizzie Stanley and Della Joyce Herrell; four brothers: Richard Herrell, Luther Herrell, Clifford Herrell and August Virgil Herrell a brother-in-law: Charles “Bud” Stanley; two sisters-in-law: Sally Herrell and Pauline Herrell and a nephew James Carey
To cherish his memory, Roy leaves his fiancée: Cheryl Suzzor; a son: Kenny (Katie) Herrell of Middlesboro, Kentucky; four children in Germany; Michael Herrell, Steven Herrell, Irene Herrell and Angela Herrell; siblings: Mildred (Stanley) Millard, Shirley Herrell, Mammie (Henry) Smallwood, Maggie (Clarence) Ervin, Sarah (Bill) Brown, Lula (Tom) Hall, Lonnie Herrell, Ford (Polly) Herrell and Billy Herrell; three grandchildren: Jaden Horton, Addison Horton, and McKenlee Herrell; and many nieces and nephews.
Friends may gather from 11:00am until 1:00pm on Tuesday February 11, 2020 at Merkle Funeral Service, North Monroe; 2442 North Monroe Street (734) 384-5185. Military honors under the auspices of Monroe Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 1138 will take place at 1:00pm. A Celebration of His Life will follow with Pastor Roy Southerland officiating also at Merkle’s.
Memorial donations are suggested to the Herrell Family to assist with funeral arrangements. Online guests may leave words of inspiration and comfort or share a photo by visiting www.merklefs.com.
