James "Jim" E. Russell's Obituary
RUSSELL, James “Jim” E., age 87, of Spring Valley, passed away Tuesday, June 10, 2025, surrounded by his loved ones at Ohio’s Hospice of Dayton.
Jim was born on October 28, 1937, to Bill and Lora Russell in Briceville, TN. He spent his early childhood in Eastern Kentucky, where he had many great memories and stories. Jim proudly served his country as an Army medic in Germany before settling down in Ohio. He was employed by the Duriron Company for 33 years before officially retiring in 1995.
He was an avid hunter, fisher, and archery shooter, and held his friendships very dear to his heart. He was married to his beautiful bride, Donna (née Crabtree) Russell, on November 8, 1963. His greatest joy in life was his grandkids and their accomplishments.
Jim was preceded in death by his loving wife of 42 years, Donna, in 2005; his parents and in-laws; his brother, Curtis Russell; and his sister, Mary Anne Harper. He is survived by his two daughters, Amy Wikstrom of Bellbrook and Lisa (Chip) Parnell of Tennessee; five grandchildren, Amber (Trey) Stewart, Brooklyn Wikstrom, Katie Parnell, Eli Parnell, and Justin (Leslie) Parnell; four great-grandchildren, Chasidy, Kai, Waylon, and Cameron; his sister, Bobbie Richmond of Georgia; his sister-in-law, Diane Beaver; brother-in-law, Harry (Diane) Crabtree Jr.; and many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.
He was very proud to be the patriarch of his family and wants them all to remember not to be a “dumbass.”
Funeral services will be at 12 p.m. on Thursday, June 12, at Conner & Koch Funeral Home in Bellbrook, with Gregg Hebrank officiating. Burial will follow the funeral service, with full military funeral honors, at Miami Cemetery in Corwin. The family will receive friends from 10:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. on Thursday, June 12, at the funeral home. If desired, contributions may be made to the Greene County Fishing and Game Association. Condolences are available at www.connerandkoch.com.
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