Harlan West Reddell

Harlan W. Reddell 87, of Lindale, passed away gently Friday morning, May 19, 2023. He was born in Bridgeport, Tx to Frank and Tina West Reddell. He was reared in the small farming community of Idalou, Tx where his mother took in ironing to pay for piano lessons. He would later achieve a Master’s degree in music from Texas Tech University after spending his teenage years as the church pianist at First Baptist Church of Idalou. His career as a public-school teacher began at Lorenzo High School, teaching Jr. high and high school choir; and would end when he retired over thirty years later from Monterey High School as an award-winning drama director. Many of his students would go on to professional careers in music and theater related professions. His impact on lives as a brilliant yet gentle teacher was immeasurable. Harlan also enjoyed performing in community theater and received numerous awards for his outstanding performances in roles such as Fagan in Oliver, Tevye in Fiddler on the Roof, Don Quixote in Man of La Mancha, Petruchio in Kiss Me Kate, the Stage Manager in Our Town, Otto Frank in The Diary of Anne Frank, and Claudius in Shakespear’s Hamlet. His most excellent role, however, was as husband of 55 years to his beloved wife Jane and father to their three children. A true leading man, he led his family by example in his humble commitment to Jesus Christ. He had a profound impact on his family, students, and community with his authoritative yet gentle manner. He was a generous giver, a man of immense integrity, slow to anger and oh so quick to forgive. Through his lengthy and painful illness, his body grew weaker, but his mind and soul remained strong, steadfast and courageous. He embodied perseverance and his absence will be felt for many years to come by all who were blessed to know him. He was preceded in death by his parents, eight siblings, and wife Willa Jane. He leaves behind his children Elizabeth and Doug Stricklin of Lindale, Mike and Donna Reddell of Lubbock, and Robin and John Lage of Cedar Hill. He was affectionately known as “H.R. and Dad” to eight grandchildren, and seven great grandchildren; numerous nieces and nephews. A private memorial will be held in Lubbock at a later date.

Harlan West Reddell

November 19, 1935 - May 19, 2023