Speaking Industry Mourns the Passing of Motivational Speaker and Friend

After 24 years in the speaking business, millions of those touched by Keith Harrell are mourning the loss of the motivational speaker, writer, and mentor. The vibrant and contagiously positive professional devoted the last quarter-century of his life to inspiring and encouraging people to evaluate their attitude as they developed strategies and methods to lead a happy and healthy life.

Originally from Seattle, Harrell is a hometown hero thanks to his high school years as a key player on the undefeated 1973-74 Super Dogs who went on to win the state title. Keith earned his Bachelor’s Degree in community service from Seattle University before embarking on a 14-year career with IBM where he was recognized as one of the top sales and training instructors. In 1997, Keith received the Certified Speaking Professional designation from the National Speakers Association. In August 2000, he was inducted into the Speaker Hall of Fame, a lifetime achievement award given for speaking excellence and professionalism.

Above all, Harrell was a man who practiced what he preached, and lived his life that way up until the day he passed. The 6-foot-7 basketball star stood out in the crowd because of his height, but was remembered because of the motivation, inspiration and love he gave to others. Harrell’s passion was to change people’s lives for the better, which was evident in the speaking presentations he delivered to millions of people, his books, articles and interviews, as well as in his personal life. Whether he was traveling, dining, or speaking, Keith saw everyday interactions as an opportunity to brighten someone’s life and encourage them to realize the great opportunity in front of them.

Known to many as, “Dr. Attitude,” Harrell’s classic response to a greeting was his upbeat slogan, “Super Fantastic.” Harrell was known as a man who treated all persons with the utmost respect and aimed to move people with his attitude and outlook. Harrell understood the emotional and mental effects of positive thinking and worked to help others lead happier lives. Keith loved the Lord with all his heart and soul and felt it was a blessing to be able to serve God in this powerful way.

“I have never known a man whose heart and mind were so filled with love and kindness,” said Ross Shafer, friend and fellow speaker. “No matter what frustration I shared with Keith, I was always energized and encouraged by hearing his voice and positive advice. I know he will watch over all of us—and guide us by his teachings, his example of how to live life, and his ongoing presence. Keith’s light is so bright he will always shine in our hearts and in the hearts of the people he touched.”

“This week I lost someone who truly impacted my life. Keith was my friend and one of the greatest motivational speakers I have ever known,” said Jim Doyle, President of Jim Doyle & Associates, Inc. “Keith believed and lived the title of his book, Attitude Is Everything. His attitude and energy impacted millions.”

Harrell was diagnosed with cancer in May 2010. He was recovering and in physical therapy with positive thoughts regarding the road ahead when he passed on Monday afternoon, October 18, 2010, in Loma Linda, CA. Harrell is survived by his father, Wendell, his mother, Florence, sister, Toni, her husband, Michael, his only niece, Tania, and many aunts, uncles, cousins and friends. The Harrell family requests that donations be made to The American Cancer Society and Loma Linda Medical Center Proton Radiation Center.

Remembering Keith Harrell
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Celebrating the Life and Legacy
A Letter from the Family of Keith Douglas Harrell

On October 18, 2010, the good Lord received our beloved Keith. Our grief is indescribable. As a family we feel such a loss, but our comfort, which comes from the Lord, has also been plentiful. Keith fought a courageous battle with cancer and he fought it with the same positive attitude and energy that he pursued in every aspect of his life. If you asked Keith how he felt each day, you knew his answer would be “Super Fantastic.”

Many of you know Keith as “Dr. Attitude” or “Mr. Super Fantastic,” but to his family he was a son, brother, uncle, nephew, cousin and dear friend. His generosity to those he loved was evident in his everyday actions. He loved blessing others and we will truly miss him. We will miss his calls, emails, and words of instruction and encouragement. We will miss his laughter and the smile that lit up any room. God has truly chosen one of his best to bring home to glory.

Keith’s love of the Lord and his faith in the word of God was never shaken during his illness. Keith lived by his own words; he maintained a positive and proactive attitude throughout his battle. His strength and resolve were an inspiration to his entire family.

We, as a family, want to thank each and every one of you who have called, emailed, written letters, or merely fell to your knees and prayed for us. We have been deeply touched by the thousands of people Keith has impacted over the years. Your words, stories and memories of Keith have comforted us through this difficult time. You will never know how much you have impacted our lives. We are humbled and overjoyed with the love that so many had for Keith. We ask for your continued prayers and we pray that each of you carry a little of Keith in your hearts, memories and daily actions.

We pray in Jesus’ name, that each of you have a super-fantastic, blessed day.

God Bless,
The Harrell Family