Harrel Lewis Curtis, 91, of Harrisonville, Missouri, passed away on Friday, February 20, 2026, at Beautiful Savior in Belton, MO. Funeral services were held  on Tuesday, February 24, 2026, at the Atkinson Funeral Home in Harrisonville, MO.

Born on June 21, 1934, in Cowell, Arkansas, Harrel was the beloved son of Alfred J. and Lou Etta (Nesbitt) Curtis. Growing up in Limestone, Arkansas, he graduated from High School in Deer, Arkansas, with the Class of 1952, before answering the call of duty and proudly serving in the Army from June 1957 until his discharge in March 1959.

Pursuing his passion for education, Harrel earned his Bachelor's degree in Science from the University of Arkansas in 1963 and went on to achieve his Master's degree from the University of Missouri - Kansas City. He married the love of his life, Roberta "Sue" Mills, on September 1, 1963, in Olvey, AR. Together, they built a beautiful life, raising two daughters, Dena and Anita, and later enjoying the joy of 9 grandchildren and 15 great-grandchildren.

Harrel's career as a science teacher began in Deer, AR, where he inspired students for five years before relocating to Harrisonville in 1964. He dedicated nearly three decades to teaching at Harrisonville High School, retiring in 1992. Known for his playful spirit, Harrel had a wicked sense of humor, with a teasing grin and laughing blue eyes, he would often walk the school halls with snakes or spiders in hand, always ready to evoke smiles and laughter by "showing" off his new friends. From his Halloween celebrations, where he invited students to his home to "decorate" with toilet paper and shaving cream, complete with "blood punch" and cookies to his light-hearted basketball games with brightly painted flower legs, you just never know how he would elicit a laugh from those around him.

Not just a teacher, Harrel wore many hats, from driving "Big Blue" for school events to fixing audio-visual equipment, and even working as a groundskeeper in the summer sun. After retirement, he lent his driving skills to Crossroads Tours, relishing opportunities to take the Chiefs (especially their cheerleaders) from the airport to the stadium and assist stranded Amtrak riders when needed. Each moment of his service only reinforced his commitment to community and connection.

Harrel's passion extended beyond teaching; his strong family ties were central to his life. He cherished time spent with his wife and daughters, and after moving away from Arkansas, his heart always remained in the mountains he loved. Many cherished memories were made fishing upstream, always with his playful methods for attracting fish.

Harrel was also an active member of the First Christian Church in Harrisonville, where he found purpose volunteering at the local food pantry, showcasing his kind heart and generous spirit. He also maintained a membership with the National Education Associates.

Harrel was preceded in death by his parents; his brother, Rutherford "Bud" Curtis; and his sister, Daphne Sain. He is survived by his wife, Sue Curtis, of Raymore, MO; his daughters: Dena (Kevin) Spannagel of Olathe, KS; and Anita (Jim) Walker of Creighton, MO; 9 grandchildren; 15 great-grandchildren; his sister-in-law, Linda Cockrum, of Harrison, AR; and numerous nieces and nephews. Although he will be deeply missed for his soft heart and ability to easily forgive, he truly LOVED his whole life and leaves a lasting mark on those who knew him.