James R. Russell “JR” born into this world on June 4, 1942 ascended to heaven on October 14, 2024 at age 82 surrounded by his loving family. Jimmy, as his five siblings called him, was the youngest child of C. Boyd and Verda (Fink) Russell grew up in Bucyrus, raised his boys in Marion and wintered in Marco Island, FL. On July 25, 1964 Jim married Ann Lynn (Shuey) Russell, together they welcomed two sons into the world, Mark and Kyle Russell.
Having a competitive spirit, hard work ethic and a drive to get things done right: Jim excelled at baseball in his early years leading him to play for Ohio University and then onto the Marion Titans semi-pro baseball team as player/manager. Mentoring and sharing his skills of baseball with his boys, he moved on to share his love and competitive spirit on the golf course spending countless weekends at Whetstone.
Always providing for his family, Jim owned and operated Ralston Coal & Supply Company in Marion in the 70s, moving on to the National Lime & Stone Company, rising to the top in Sales and Marketing, where he retired after 34 years. A capable architect he designed and built numerous houses including the family home on Kingwood Circle with his sons by his side.
Jim was preceded in death by his parents Boyd and Verda, his brother: Jack Russell, his sisters: Janice Carroll, Jeannette Christman, Joyce DeVore, and Joan Dilly.
He is survived by his wife, Ann Lynn Russell, his sons, Mark and Kyle (Jennifer) Russell, his grandchildren, Ashley, Allison, Nicky and Zachary. And, a number of beloved nieces, nephews and countless friends left to cherish his memory, his jokes, his one-liners and resulting laughter.
Calling hours will be held October 23, 2024, from 2pm to 4pm at the Boyd Funeral Home, with a Memorial service to begin at 4pm. Burial will be at a later date at the Marion Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, Jim’s family requests contributions be made to The ALS Association PO Box 37022 Boone, IA 50037-0022.