1st Vice President Bryan Harrel (1965-2025)

On May 1st, 2025, CWA Local 6360 lost our 1st Vice President Bryan Harrel. Bryan had valiantly battled cancer for 2 years. For much of that time and through frequent rounds of treatments, Bryan remained dedicated to his family and the members of this local. He fought this battle head on with a positive spirit and an inspiring ferocity. In the face of serious hardship, he chose to smile and push through.

When Bryan started with AT&T, he began regularly attending membership meetings. His passion and leadership were immediately evident. He refused to accept the status quo as an answer and always pushed for the “why?” His passion resulted in his election as a Chief Steward within the local in 2017. He came in ready to learn and represent those who had elected him. Bryan dedicated himself to learning the contract and grievance process. He accepted that he had a lot to learn but also demonstrated that he had a lot to offer.

As some of the other Chief Stewards he worked with moved into other positions within the local, Bryan stepped up into a lead representation role. He worked to bring along and prepare other stewards for larger roles within the local. In 2021, following the retirement of a local officer, Bryan was selected by the Executive Board to take on the role of 1st Vice President. He jumped right into his new role, excited to learn. He served the membership in that role until his illness forced him to go on leave earlier this year.

Bryan forged countless relationships with our members and company leadership that will benefit this local for years to come. Bryan was always ready to fight the good fight. His sense of justice and fairness always led the way when issues arose in the workplace. He worked with District Campaign Leads, educating our members on the importance of PAF contributions, as well as phone banking during the numerous election seasons. There was never an ask that was too much for Bryan, nor was there ever a time he did anything halfway.

These days, the word inspiration gets tossed around frequently. But, in the case of Bryan, there might be no better word to use. He was an example of what we should all strive to be. A steadfast leader in the face of turmoil. A loving husband and father. A caring mentor and union brother. The hole he leaves here at 6360 and in our hearts is significant, but the legacy he leaves us will last long after those wounds heal. Our prayers are with his family, friends, and union brothers in this tough time.

Rest Easy, Brother.

A celebration will be held on May 24, 2025, from 11 am to 2 pm at Be Free Family Farm (11301 E 139th St, Kansas City, MO 64149). Bryan Lynn Harrel Obituary May 1, 2025 - Speaks Chapel