YouTuber Paul Harrell, renowned for his gun reviews, firearms instruction videos, and Second Amendment advocacy, passed away at 58 due to pancreatic cancer, leaving an immense legacy in the firearms community.
In a somber and heartfelt video uploaded posthumously to his popular YouTube channel, the late Paul Harrell, a former U.S. Army and Marine Corps veteran, shared the heartbreaking news of his passing. Harrell, known for his extensive expertise in firearms, delivered a poignant message to his loyal followers, reflecting on his life and the impact his work had on the firearms community.
Recorded on December 20, 2023, the six-minute clip captured Harrell seated on a log in the woods, a crutch lying beside him. With a stoicism that belied his impending departure, he calmly began his final message, "If you’re watching me, I’m dead."
Beloved YouTube Firearm Expert Paul Harrell Announces Own Death from Pancreatic Cancer
Harrell had previously shared his diagnosis of pancreatic cancer, expressing optimism at the early detection. However, he revealed that the disease had spread to his bones, weakening his hip and causing it to fracture.
"My time is drawing short," he said with a heavy heart, acknowledging the brevity of his remaining days. Despite his impending demise, Harrell remained grateful for the support he had received from his fans through Patreon and urged them to continue their patronage.
Beloved YouTube Firearm Expert Paul Harrell Announces Own Death from Pancreatic Cancer
He emphasized the profound purpose behind his work: "My goal in doing all of this was, yes, to have fun, do some things that were fun, but primarily to put out useful information," he explained. "Or if not useful at least interesting information."
Harrell expressed hope that his videos had enlightened and guided his viewers, saving them money and preventing them from making unwise purchases. He took solace in the knowledge that he had made a positive impact through his educational content.
Beloved YouTube Firearm Expert Paul Harrell Announces Own Death from Pancreatic Cancer
"My sincere apologies," he lamented. "I had hoped that I would continue in this format for the next 10 or even 15 years. And even once I was diagnosed, I had hoped we would be here two or three more years, and it's turned out to only be a few more months. And my apologies for that. It really makes me feel like I've let everybody down."
Despite his regrets, Harrell expressed overwhelming gratitude for the opportunity to share his knowledge and passion for firearms. With emotion in his voice, he thanked his viewers, noting that his contributions had been a labor of love. "I really hope it’s been helpful and I really appreciate you watching, commenting and participating, and I have probably very few regrets in what we’ve done here."
Beloved YouTube Firearm Expert Paul Harrell Announces Own Death from Pancreatic Cancer
"I think we've been, for the most part, successful. I hope you agree," he concluded. "So, as always, don't try this at home. And thanks for watching."
Following Harrell's message, his brother, Roy E. Harrell, Jr., appeared in the video, sharing his sorrow at the loss of his beloved brother. "It was his wish that I maintain his legacy through this channel," Roy stated. "He will remain an inspiration to us all."
Brad Nelson, Harrell's manager, also addressed the audience, expressing his privilege of working alongside Harrell for years. "He's very generous and kind guy, and he told the best campfire stories," Nelson recounted. "He's positively influenced many people's lives, including my own, and I'm very grateful for that."
Nelson assured viewers that Harrell's legacy would live on through the continuation of educational videos on his channel. He encouraged them to honor his memory by sharing their knowledge and enthusiasm for firearms, fostering curiosity and learning, just as Paul Harrell had done.
Upon its release, Harrell's final video sparked an outpouring of grief and appreciation from his devoted fans. They expressed immense gratitude for his contributions to gun safety education and his unwavering advocacy for gun owners' rights. "A giant amongst giants," one fan wrote. "Paul, is not simply a gun enthusiast and educator. He is thee Gun Educator. Your contributions will be remembered by many for many years. Your teachings will live on."
Another fan noted Harrell's "OG" status in the YouTube gun community, adding, "Paul you were the OG Youtube Gun guy, and you will be missed profoundly. Thank you for your wonderful content!" Others marveled at the stoicism Harrell displayed in his final message, calling it a "master class in dying with grace and dignity."
"A true example of masculinity," one fan wrote. "Not an alpha bro tough guy overcompensating and covering up insecurity. But stoic, experienced, intelligent, self aware, measured, respectful, and brave." Paul Harrell's legacy extends far beyond his YouTube channel, leaving an indelible mark on the firearms community and countless individuals who benefited from his unwavering commitment to education and advocacy.
