Jack Russell, age 79, passed away August 18, 2024. He was a loving father, papa, brother, uncle, and friend. He was always proud of his family. He loved hunting and fishing. He was a hardworking, honest, well respected, and talented heavy equipment owner and operator. He passed those skills onto his son, Hank, and they worked, hunted, fished and did about everything side by side. A man could be no prouder than he was of his son and the man he has become. You would often see dad driving around with his four-legged little buddy, George. George was a loyal companion and remained by his side until the end.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Cleo and Floyd, his wife of 40 years, Bessie and his sisters, Bobbie and Linda.

He is survived by his brother, Jerry (Geraldine), sister, Judy, son and best friend, Hank, daughter, Tina (Lonzo), daughter, Lisa (Brad), grandchildren, Jessica (Thomas), Amber (Tyler), great-grandchildren, Serenity and Wesley, special nephews Jeff (Stella) and Stan (Jill, Callie, Chloe), and numerous other aunts, nieces, and nephews who were all so loved.

Special thanks to honorary family Paul (Morgan, Dakota), and Amy (Brady, Keely) whose love, friendship, and kindness meant the world to him. Thank you to the many friends, life-long friends, and family that shared adventures, visited, reminisced and lifted his spirits especially when his mobility limited his movement. The family would also like to express our sincere appreciation to the dedicated paramedics, Fort Loudon Medical Center CCU staff, Dr. Shalaby's office, and the staff at Food City Pharmacy for all their efforts, compassion, and kindness through this journey.

Dad was a simple man and wasn't much for flowers, so in lieu of flowers he would say to take that money and go spend time with the ones you love.

Graveside services will be held at Morganton Cemetery on Tuesday August 20, 2024 at 2pm., Pastor Arkie Baker officiating.