Russell Neal Coltharp

Russell Neal Coltharp, a lifelong resident of Memphis, Tennessee, passed away on Tuesday, April 29, 2025, at the age of 65 after a year long battle with cancer. Born on December 26, 1959, in Memphis, Russell was deeply rooted in the community where he spent his entire life.

He was known for his dedication to the family business, Coltharp Piano World, which he helped build into a respected name in piano sales and service across the region. Russell’s passion for music and craftsmanship was evident in his work, and he cherished the legacy passed down from his father.

Russell was also dedicated to working with the Shelby County Sheriff’s office for over 30 years as a reserve officer. Russell loved to travel with his wife, Karin and they spent many days on the road seeing new things and making precious memories. Russell never knew a stranger and everyone knew he had the “gift of gab”. He was a very charismatic man who kept the piano’s of Memphis making great music at many venues including The Memphis Symphony, The Peabody, The Cannon Center and many Memphis area churches. Russell was unafraid and unashamed to share the gospel of Jesus Christ with anyone and we are confident that others will see him in heaven due to his prayers and efforts to share the good news.

Russell is preceded in death by is father, Carrol Coltharp and his mother, Lorraine Coltharp. Russell is survived by his wife, Karin Coltharp, his sister, Loretta Morton, his brother in law, Scott Morton, his uncle, Jack Brister, his aunt Charlotte Brister, his cousins Laura & Lowell Brister, Samuella Daum & Lee Daum, Julie & Ira Littman, Tammy & Mark Brooks & Alayna, Sheila & Joe Brooks, Brennan Brister & Savannah Brister, his step children and grandchildren, Ashley & Justin Ellis & Landon & Caleb, Collette & Sean Hughes, Gabby Brewer & Hazel Hughes, Christy and Brett Starks & Brody, Grant & Marley Kate, Adam Ellis, Jennifer Minor & Charlie Ellis.

Russell’s life and contributions will be honored by his family, friends, and the many individuals whose lives he touched through his work and community involvement. Funeral arrangements are being handled by Memphis Funeral Home & Memorial Gardens in Bartlett, Tennessee. Visitation is scheduled for May 8, 2025 from 11AM-1PM with service to follow at Faith Baptist Church located at 3755 N. Germantown Rd. Bartlett, TN 38133. Interment will follow the service at Memphis Memory Gardens located at 6444 Raleigh Lagrange Rd. Memphis, TN 38134. The family asks for donations in lieu of flowers be made to American Cancer Society.