City of Tulare Mourns the Passing of Vice Mayor Stephen C. Harrell

TULARE, CA - The City of Tulare is deeply saddened to announce the passing of Vice Mayor Stephen C. Harrell, who passed away on Thursday, October 8, 2026.

A lifelong Tulare resident and dedicated public servant, Vice Mayor Harrell devoted much of his life to serving and protecting the community he called home. Elected to the Tulare City Council in 2020, he brought decades of experience in public safety, emergency services, and community leadership to his role.

A second-generation Tulare native, Harrell graduated from Tulare Union High School and began his career in public service as a volunteer firefighter at the age of 15. He later served with the California Division of Forestry before enlisting in the United States Air Force, where he served for four years.

Following his military service, Harrell returned to Tulare and began a distinguished career in law enforcement. He served as a deputy sheriff with the Tulare County Sheriff's Department before joining the Tulare Police Department, where he spent 25 years and retired with the rank of lieutenant. Throughout his career, he remained committed to public safety and emergency medical services, including serving on the Tulare County Emergency Medical Care Committee for 20 years.

Harrell's commitment to his community extended well beyond his professional career. He served on the Tulare Local Health Care District Board of Directors, held leadership roles in emergency medical services organizations, coached youth soccer, and remained actively involved in his church and community.

"Tulare has lost a dedicated servant, friend, strong father, and loving husband," said Mayor Isherwood. "Councilman Harrell served this community with integrity and honor. Having known Steve for over 25 years, and having been elected to the Council together in 2020, the sudden loss of a friend and colleague hits especially hard. He was anchored in his love for Tulare. Our utmost condolences go to Barbara, his sons, family, and friends. Tulare mourns a leader whose lasting impact on our city will not be forgotten."

Vice Mayor Harrell's decades of service reflect a lifelong dedication to the people of Tulare. His contributions to public safety, local government, and community organizations leave a lasting legacy.

In honor of Vice Mayor Harrell's life and dedicated service to the Tulare community, Mayor Isherwood has ordered flags at all City facilities to be flown at half-staff until further notice.

The City of Tulare extends its deepest condolences to his wife, Barbara, his sons, grandchildren, extended family, friends, and all those whose lives he touched.