Obituaries

In Loving Memory of John Thomas “Tommy” Russell.  On Wednesday, June 18, 2025, John Thomas (Tommy) Russell peacefully left his earthly home to spend eternity in heaven with his Savior. A true man of God, Tommy devoted his life to sharing the good news of Jesus, whether through conversation or song, with everyone he met.  In 1969, Tommy and the love of his life, Sheila Russell, founded the Russell Family gospel group—a ministry through music that touched countless hearts. Fittingly, he sang his final song the night before he went home to be with the Lord.  Tommy was a devoted husband to Sheila for 55 wonderful years. He was an amazing father to his daughter, Ginger, and son-in-law, Rusty Kerr, as well as to his son, Greg, and daughter-in-law, Robin Russell. His greatest joy was being “Papaw” to his beloved grandchildren—Griffin, Faith, and Lucas Russell—who were the light of his life.  A man of deep faith and service, Tommy also served his country in the Air National Guard and his community as a firefighter for the City of Maryville for 37 years. His legacy of love, music, and dedication will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.  Tommy was preceded in death by his father, Thomas Russell; his mother, Susie Russell; and his sisters, Carol Heaton and Ann Jenkins.  He is survived by his loving wife of 55 years, Sheila Russell; his daughter, Ginger Kerr, and son-in-law, Rusty Kerr; his son, Greg Russell, and daughter-in-law, Robin Russell; his cherished grandchildren, Griffin, Faith, and Lucas Russell; his sister, Betty Bryant, and brother-in-law, Roy Bryant; brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law, Doug and Sharon Russell, Steve and Lisa Blankenship, Tim and Janice Russell, and Victor Russell; and many beloved nieces and nephews.