A devout Christian, devoted family man, and humble servant to others, Harold Sorrells lived a life defined by faith, integrity, and quiet generosity. An accomplished entrepreneur and respected leader in the trucking industry, he was equally known for his deep commitment to his church, his community, and to helping others without ever seeking personal recognition.

Junior Harold Sorrells was born on May 15, 1937, in Covington County, Alabama, to Abe Madison Sorrells and Annie Caroline Sorrells. The second youngest of twelve children, he learned the value of hard work and perseverance at an early age. While attending school, he went to work as a teenager while living with his older sister, developing the independence and determination that would guide him throughout his life.

After graduating with honors from Opp High School in 1955, Harold proudly served four years in the United States Navy aboard the aircraft carrier USS Yorktown attaining the rank of Radarman First Class. Despite encouragement from the Navy to continue his military service, he returned home, choosing family and community over a long-term naval career. In July 1959, using money he had carefully saved, he purchased his first truck—marking the beginning of a successful and enduring career in the trucking industry.

On May 5, 1960, Harold married Jeanette McCullough, beginning a loving and steadfast marriage that spanned nearly 66 years. Together, they built a life centered on faith, family, and service, raising three daughters—Melissa, Susan, and Julie—whom he loved deeply and supported unwaveringly.

His company, J.H. Sorrells Trucking, later known as MSJ Trucking—named for the first initials of his three daughters—grew into one of Alabama's most respected privately-held trucking companies. Despite opportunities to relocate and pursue greater personal financial gain, Harold chose to keep the company in Opp, honoring his commitment to his employees and the community he loved.

A tireless advocate for the trucking industry, Harold served on the Board of Directors of the Alabama Trucking Association, including a term as chairman from 2004–2005. In recognition of his lasting contributions and leadership, the association later honored him with the Chester Webb Award, its highest lifetime achievement award.

His service extended far beyond his profession. Guided by his Christian faith, Harold gave generously of his time and wisdom to numerous civic and charitable organizations. He served for 15 years on the Opp Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors, including as president; as Chairman of the Alabama Ethics Commission; Chairman of the Board of Deacons at Opp First Baptist Church; President of the Opp Rotary Club where he was a Paul Harris Fellow; Chairman of the Board of Mizell Memorial Hospital; and as a member of the Industrial Development Board and Economic Development Board for Covington County. He also served as a director and board member of Covington County Bank. In 2014, he was inducted into the Opp Hall of Fame.

An ardent supporter of Auburn University and Auburn Athletics, Harold attended over 280 consecutive Auburn football games, including road and bowl games. Although he was not an Auburn graduate himself, he embodied the principles of the Auburn Creed. He was also tremendously proud that all three of his daughters are Auburn University graduates. Between his daughters and grandchildren, a total of 11 Auburn University degrees have been awarded.

Throughout his life, Harold quietly helped countless individuals and families, offering guidance, encouragement, and support without expectation of praise. His legacy is one of servant leadership, faith in action, and love for others.

Harold Sorrells is survived by his beloved wife, Jeanette; daughters, Melissa Ellis (Jerry) of Opp, Susan Hubbard (Mike) of Auburn, and Julie Moody (Rothel) of Opp; six grandchildren, Drew Mims (Laura), Mallory Dunn, Clayte Hubbard (Maggie), Trey Moody (Ellie), Riley Hubbard, and Caroline Moody; three great-grandchildren, Parker Mims, Cooper Mims, and Jackson Mims; sister, Peggy Ann Henderson (Jake); brother-in-law, Marvin McCullough (Lurlene); and several nieces & nephews. Along with his parents, he was preceded in death by his brothers & sisters, Ursey Dell Nichols, Chester Smith, Annie Clyde Jones, Betty Sue Griffin, Amos Smith, York Smith, Agnes Ellis, Tots Boland, Bobby Duncan, Bell Odom Johnson and Carroll Sorrells; and special nephew, Randall Paul Jones.

Funeral services for Mr. J. Harold Sorrells will be held at 2:00 pm Tuesday, January 20, 2026 from First Baptist Church Opp with burial following in Peaceful Acres Memorial Gardens. Visitation will be held at the church two hours prior to the service. Rev. Wayne Sharpe, Pastor Brian Smith and Bro. Cameron Crapps will be officiating. Drew Mims, Clayte Hubbard, Trey Moody, Riley Hubbard, Cory Spurlin, Jay Spurlin, Neal Presley and Greg Henderson will be serving as pallbearers with members of The Dependables Sunday School Class and First Baptist Church deacons serving as honorary pallbearers.

Flowers will be accepted or memorials may be made to Mizell Memorial Hospital Foundation (www.mizellmh.com MMH, 702 N. Main St., Opp, AL 36467) or First Baptist Church Opp (www.firstbaptistopp.net FBC, PO Box 963, Opp, AL 36467).