W. Carlisle Harrell
January 6, 1938 – January 7, 2024

William Carlisle Harrell, 86, of Columbia, passed away peacefully surrounded by his loving family on Sunday, January 7, 2024, at his daughter’s residence.

Carlisle was born in Tyrrell County on January 6, 1938, to the late Luther Monroe and Aline Cooper Harrell. He was married to Rena Mae Spencer who preceded him in death.

He was a member of the Columbia Missionary Baptist Church where he served as Chairman of the Board of Deacons, Sunday School superintendent, trustee, church treasurer and adult Sunday School teacher. He was past president, Paul Harris fellow of the former Columbia Rotary Club and served as the treasurer for the Southern Albemarle Association.

His professional career was devoted to education serving as Vice Principal of Oscar Smith High School in Chesapeake, VA, and former principal of Columbia High School. He later became the Manager of the Town of Columbia, serving in this capacity for several years.

A funeral service will be held Tuesday, January 9, 2024, at 11:00 a.m. at Columbia Missionary Baptist Church. A private burial will follow at Azalea Memorial Gardens. Pastor Prudencio Casas will officiate.

Surviving is a daughter, Beverly H. Swain (Robert) of Columbia; two grandchildren, Andrew Swain (Chelsea) of Columbia and Sarah S. Copeland (Will) of Tyner; three great-grandchildren, Hunter Blake Copeland, Ellie Copeland, and Grady Swain; a sister-in-law, Mrs. Dawn Harrell of Columbia; two nephews, David Harrell (Lynley) of Beulaville and Dylan Harrell of Wilmington.

 The family will receive friends Monday, January 8, 2024, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Bryan Funeral Service.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Columbia Missionary Baptist Church, PO Box 82, Columbia, NC 27925.

Arrangements are by Bryan Funeral Service, Columbia.