Paul Edward Harrell

Paul Edward Harrell, age 36, of Monrovia, Indiana, passed away on Tuesday, August 4, 2026, following a tragic automobile accident near his home. Born in Indianapolis on September 6, 1989, Paul was the beloved son of Cassandra "Cassie" (Craig) and Kenneth W. Jackson. He spent the majority of his school years attending Monrovia Schools and attended high school with the Indian Creek Class of 2008. Growing up, he was a "quiet and wild" kid—spending his youth riding bikes, skateboarding in Morgantown, and watching Jackass rather than playing traditional sports. As the oldest sibling—four years older than Evan and ten years older than Julia—Paul naturally stepped into the role of protective big brother and leader of his friend group. Paul was a passionate, authentic, and complex soul. Known for having "no filter," a deep capacity for forgiveness, and a heart overflowing with love, he had a rare instinct to listen to anyone in need and try to solve their problems, even while navigating his own. He knew the Bible inside and out, was baptized, and carried a deep spiritual foundation. A lover of live concerts and pushing limits, Paul expressed his creative energy as a musician, playing grunge, punk-rock, and metal with his bands, Dope-ler Effect and Jesus & the Rejects. Like many passionate artists, Paul fought hard through personal demons and struggles during his early adulthood, but his journey was defined by strength and redemption. Over the past year, he had been doing exceptionally well, finding steady ground and building a deep bond with his son, Malakai. Paul took immense pride in serving as a music mentor to Malakai, proudly recognizing early on that his son’s musical talents exceeded his own. Survivors include his loving parents, Cassie and Kenny Jackson; his cherished son, Malakai Harrell; brother, Evan Jackson (Savannah); sister, Julia Jackson (Mike Denton); maternal grandmother, Rose Craig; nephews, Carter and Rhett Jackson; Malakai's mother, Cassie Deere; and close friend, Niki Taylor. He was preceded in death by his maternal grandfather, Richard Craig, his childhood best friend, Andrew "Biscuit" St. John, whose loss in 2019 deeply marked Paul's life; and special fur-buddy, Bronx. Paul’s fierce love, unmistakable presence, and unyielding heart will be forever remembered by the family and friends who loved him. Visitation will be held from 12 to 3 p.m. on Wednesday, August 12, 2026, at Light Memorial & Funeral Chapel in Monrovia. A Celebration of Life Service will immediately follow at 3:00 p.m. Burial will take place at Mt. Pleasant Cemetery in Hall. Paul’s family has requested that memorial contributions be made to assist his son, Malakai, with his future endeavors. Envelopes will be available during the services and to donate online please click https://www.paypal.com/ncp/payment/TCS7HKMA5M9YJ. To share a favorite story, send an online condolence to the family, or light a candle in his memory, visit www.lightmemorial.com

Tributes

Paul Edward Harrell

September 6, 1989 - August 4, 2026