Leslie L. Jarrell's Obituary
Leslie “Les” L. Jarrell, a widower and devoted father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and brother, passed away peacefully on March 18, 2025, surrounded by family at his side. Les was born October 10, 1946, in Jacksonville, Florida, to parents Horace Grady and Ethel (Packham) Jarrell, who preceded him in death. Les lived a life full of love, adventure, and dedication to his family and to our Lord and savior. Les was the beloved husband of the late Brenda Kaye (Scarlett) Jarrell. Surrounded by girls his whole life, he embraced his role as a brother and father with humor and unwavering love. He found great joy in being a grandfather and great-grandfather, cherishing the moments spent with his loved ones. A lifelong sports fan, Les had a deep passion for Atlanta Braves baseball and the Arkansas Razorbacks, rarely missing a chance to cheer on his favorite teams. His love for the open road led him to a fulfilling career as an over-the-road truck driver, where he found peace and purpose behind the wheel.
Les is survived by his four daughters, Leslie Gwyn (David) Lay, Ashley Dawn (Rob) Barker, Rachael Renee (Ron) Jeppe, and Lauren Leigh (Bill) Denney; two sisters, Jackie Ellison and Janie Kaminski; 11 beloved grandchildren and 14 greatly cherished great-grandchildren, as well as countless friends and loved ones who will forever remember his humor, wit, and love of Christ. Psalm 34:18 says, “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” Though he may be gone, his memory will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.
Visitation will be held at 10 A.M. at Memorial Park Funeral Home and Cemetery, with a private family graveside service immediately following. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to American Lung Association in honor of his memory.
Psalm 23: The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He makes me to lie down in green pastures; He leads me beside the still waters. He restores my soul; He leads me in the paths of righteousness for His name’s sake. Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil; for You are with me; Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me. You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; You anoint my head with oil; My cup runs over. Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life; and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.
Rest easy, Les. Your journey and miles on Earth’s roads are complete, but your love will guide us always.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Memorial Park Funeral Home and Cemetery, 5668 Poplar Avenue, Memphis, Tennessee 38119 (901) 767-8930.
“Where Memphis comes to remember, since 1924.”
What’s your fondest memory of Leslie?
What’s a lesson you learned from Leslie?
Share a story where Leslie's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Leslie you’ll never forget.
How did Leslie make you smile?
