Russell Malon Hess Jr., 81, of Leesport, entered eternal rest on March 14, 2026, at his residence. Born February 23, 1945, in Reading, PA, he was the son of the late Russell Malon Hess Sr. and Angelina (Lecatsas) Hess.
He is now reunited in Heaven with his beloved wife, Jolyn Ann (Eckroth) Hess, along with his sister, Theresa Deren; his son, Russell M. Hess III; and his stepson, Robert Fierro.
Russell spent the majority of his working life behind the wheel as a dedicated truck driver, most recently with Landis Express, where he worked for 15 years before enjoying a well-earned retirement.
He was an avid bowler and a proud member of Berks Lanes, where Wednesdays were reserved for friends, laughter, and a bit of friendly competition. Russell also enjoyed hunting, spending time in the pool, and watching NASCAR on Sundays, always rooting for his favorite driver, Chase Elliott. Above all, he cherished the time he spent with his family.
Russell will be remembered as a hardworking man with a sharp sense of humor and a tell-it-like-it-is personality that those who knew him grew to admire. He had a knack for making people laugh and always spoke his mind. He will be deeply missed by all who were fortunate enough to know him.
Russell's spirit will be carried on by his daughters, Wendy Hess and Kelly Keinert; his stepson, Michael Fierro; his brother, Rick Hess and his wife, Sharon; and his brother-in-law, Gene Deren. He is also survived by his 7 grandchildren, Shannon Ache-Hassler, Joseph Andrews, Chad Hess, Christopher Smith, Shawn Peterson, Nicole Hess, and Heather Hess; his 14 great-grandchildren, Lexi Gonzalez, Jazmine Gonzalez, Cassidy Umberger, Alex Hess, Randy Hess, Jaden Hess, Jase Hess, Jessie Smith, Flynn Smith, Carl Weaver, Nathan Crandall, Landon Crandall, Isabella Ache-Hassler, and Sapphire Ache-Hassler; his great-great-grandchild, Zuri Marie Santana; and his 3 nieces, Gina, Diana, and Christina, and his 3 nephews, Bryan, Timothy, and Jeremy.
A viewing will be held at Auman’s Inc., 390 W. Neversink Rd., Reading, PA 19606, on Tuesday, March 24, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. A prayer service will begin at 11:30 a.m. in the funeral home, with Pastor Bruce Osterhout officiating. Graveside committal will immediately follow at Forest Hills Memorial Park, Reiffton.
