Eugene R. Harrel, age 96, of Caneyville, KY, passed away Sunday, (March 15, 2026) at the Western Kentucky Veteran Center in Hanson, KY.

He was born on July 15, 1929 in Leitchfield, KY, the son of the late Carson and Lula Royalty Harrel.

He retired after 35 years of employment at Brown and Williamson Tobacco Company, working as a security guard. He loved farming, fishing, and listening to Bluegrass music. Eugene loved spending time with his family, especially his beloved grandchildren. He was a proud U.S. Navy veteran serving during WWll. He married his late wife, Ethel Mae Guttermuth (Tootie) Harrel in 1961. He was a member of Short Creek Masonic Lodge #744 and General Grand Chapter Order of the Eastern Star. He was a member of Short Creek Cumberland Presbyterian Church for over 60 years.

He is survived by his son and daughter-in-law, Carson and Donna Harrel of Caneyville; grandson, Brandon Keith Harrel and his wife, Jenna, of Short Creek, granddaughter, Amanda Dawn Adkins, and her husband, Ben, of Short Creek; five great-grandchildren, Leah, Addy Jo, Cambrie, Braxton, and Drake.

Other than her parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Ethel Mae “Tootie” Harrel and his brother, William Gordon Harrel.

Funeral services will be at 1:00 p.m. on Thursday, (March 19, 2026) at the Dermitt Funeral Home in Leitchfield. Bro. Billy Carter will be officiating. Burial will be in the Leitchfield Memorial Gardens.

Visitation will be at the Dermitt Funeral Home from 3:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. on Wednesday and from 9:00 a.m. Thursday until time of services.     

Masonic Services will be held on Wednesday night beginning at  6:00 p.m.