Virgil Andrew Harrell

Funeral services for Virgil Harrell, 88-year-old Buffalo resident, who passed away Wednesday, July 10, 2024, will be held Saturday, July 13, 2024, at 2:00 PM at the Harness Funeral Chapel in Buffalo, Wyoming with Pastor Kurt Rovenstine officiating. A graveside service at Willow Grove Cemetery will follow. A visitation for Virgil will be held on Friday, July 12, 2024, from 1:00 PM to 9:00 PM at the Harness Funeral Chapel. Donations in Virgil’s memory may be made to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital at 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105. Online condolences may be made at www.harnessfuneralhome.com.

Born on January 4, 1936, in Apopka, Florida, to David and Maude Harrell, Virgil’s journey of life was a testament to his spirited nature and his ability to bring joy and laughter to all who knew him.

Virgil met the love of his life, Sandra L. Harrell, in Casper, Wyoming, while visiting family and the two were married on February 2, 1957. After completing his high school diploma in the Army and serving at Ft. Hood, Texas, Virgil returned to Casper and began his career as a truck driver for Burlington Northern Truck lines. After a transfer by the company, the family moved to Buffalo, Wyoming where the entrepreneurial spirit soon took hold, and they would start numerous businesses that thrived under his guidance. Virgil’s business skills were evident as he built several buildings in Buffalo, which he rented to retailers and families, contributing to the growth and development of the community.

Among his many ventures, Virgil established Buffalo Gardens Greenhouse and owned a furniture store in Buffalo. His success as a business owner spanned over five decades.

Those who knew Virgil will fondly remember his love for socializing. He was the heart of any gathering, known for his great jokes and the ability to make everyone around him laugh. His sense of humor was as much a part of his legacy as his business achievements.

Virgil is survived by his wife Sandra L. Harrell of Buffalo, Wyoming, and his daughters Valerie A. Occhipinti (James) of Aubrey, Texas, and Deborah K. Rovenstine (Kurt) of Bartlesville, Oklahoma. He was also a loving grandfather to his four grandchildren, Breanna, Brittany, Alecia, and Tori, and a proud great-grandfather to six great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents David and Maude Harrell, his brothers James “Jake”, Wilbur, Melvin, Garland, and Burrell Harrell and his sisters Dorothy and Maudeline.