Dr. Jack Harrell leaves a lasting legacy and beautiful smiles

At 78, Dr. Andrew Jackson “Jack” Harrell passed away on September 18, 2022. The Snow Hill native had a tremendous impact on the local community with his private orthodontic practice. As a recipient of the Citizen of the Year award, and a member of numerous boards throughout the years, Harrell lived his dedication to his home. 

“My brother and I can thank the great Dr. Jack Harrell with beautiful smiles,” said Kristen Smithwick on Harrell’s Tribute Wall. “He was a terrific orthodontist and always made people laugh. Sending thoughts and love to the Harrell family.”

Harrell graduated from Greene Central High School in 1962, and went on to receive his Bachelor of Science from UNC Chapel Hill and his Doctor of Dental Surgery. After completing his education, he returned to Kinston to set up his private practice. 

Harrell and his wife Kay Taylor Harrell were known for hosting events that everyone wanted to go to. He also enjoyed showing off the treasures he had collected over the years. 

“Dr. Harrell was a fellow UNC Orthodontics Alumni, a wonderful colleague and most importantly a loyal friend to all of us at Brown Ortho,” said Brown Orthodontics on their Facebook page. “He will be greatly missed by our team and always hold a special place in our hearts! Our prayers are with his family and friends.”

Harrell served on numerous boards for several large organizations including Westminster United Methodist Church, Lenoir Memorial Hospital, the Salvation Army, the Lenoir County Committee of 100, Rotary Club, Chamber of Commerce, Dobbs School Advisory Board, Smart Start, TOUGHLOVE, the Boy Scouts and Lenoir Community College.

“He has been a huge influence in my life and in helping God to mold me into the type of man I’d like to be,” said Hiram Grady on Facebook. “What better role model could a man ask for?”

In addition to Kinston Lenoir Chamber of Commerce Citizen of the Year award, Harrell also received the Key Man, the Chairman’s Award from the Fair Association, and Lenoir County Distinguished Service Award. 

“He was my orthodontist and I took my son to him as well,” said Brenda Jones Whaley on Harrell’s tribute wall. “Always enjoyed our visits which always included stories about his hometown Snow Hill. He will truly be missed but his memories live on in each person who knew him and got to experience his presence.”

A visitation will be held from 4:00 pm until 7:00 pm on Monday October 3, 2022 at Westminster United Methodist Church. A celebration of life will be held on Tuesday October 4, 2022 at 1:30 pm, also at Westminster United Methodist Church. 

“Our hearts are broken,” said Gail and Ted Howard on Facebook. “Dr. Harrell was one of a kind. I never heard a negative word from him or about him. His love for humanity and community is unmatched.”