James William Russell

James William “J.R.” Russell 1929—2016

America’s “Greatest Generation” lost another esteemed member with the passing of James William “J.R.” Russell September 7, 2016.

Born and raised in Scott County in southwest Virginia, J.R. left home for the first time in 1950 to serve in the United States Army during the Korean Conflict.  J.R. functioned as part of the great Post WWII (Marshall Plan) reconstruction force  as a member of the Medical Corps, serving most of his enlistment in Germany, Italy and Austria.  After his service in the Army, J.R. returned to the United States and made his home in Big Stone Gap, Virginia where he married his wife of 63 years, Ethel Faye. 

In search of work outside of the Coal Industry, J.R. made his way to Indianapolis, Indiana in 1971 where he established himself as a master carpenter with the Perry Construction Company.

J.R. was a member of several Patriotic Organizations with life membership in the Veterans of Foreign Wars, The American Legion and AMVETS.  J.R. held numerous command and staff positions to include Commander, Treasurer, Sergeant at Arms and Vice Commander.

J.R. loved to tell stories of his exploits as a teen in Appalachia and as young adult in Europe.  If you happened to miss one of these stories, there was no worry, because he told them again and again and again and again and…well, you get the point.  He was also known for being the only person that anyone knows that can replace the common comma with “But anyhow” and have it make sense.

James William Russell faded quietly and peacefully away in the company of his loving family.  He is survived by his wife Ethel Faye and leaves a legacy of four children, Janie (Pete), Perette (Steve), James William “Bill” Jr. (Melanie), Toby (Jeff) and four Grand Children, Leslye, Katherine, Ashley (Collin) and Casey and two Great Grand Children, Trey and Norah.

J.R. was a great patriot, a devoted husband, dedicated father, loving grandfather and a loyal friend.

The family would like to recognize the outstanding support and care of the Richard L. Roudebush Indianapolis VA Medical Center staff and request that in lieu of flowers, consider supporting, volunteering or joining one of the patriotic organizations that was J.R.’s passion.

Friends may call from 1-4pm Saturday, September 10, 2016  at the Usher Funeral Home.  A brief committal service and Military tribute will be held at 4pm.

“Old Soldiers never die; they just fade away.”

     --General Douglas MacArthur

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