Nolan Gaines "Peewee" Russell Jr.

He was born on December 15, 1956 in Colorado City to Nolan and Dorothy Marshall Russell.

Peewee was what is called “That Guy”, always there for his family and friends, and heavily involved in his community. He was an exceptional husband and father, an even better grandfather, and one of the best brothers, uncles, and in-laws a person could ask for. After obtaining his Bachelor Degree from West Texas A&M at Canyon Peewee worked for multiple jobs over the years to provide for his family, but his true passion was giving back to his community as both a Volunteer Fireman for the Colorado City Fire Department and as a baseball and softball Umpire which he proudly did for over 35 years, earning many accolades including most recently the 2024 umpire of the year. His years umping were some of the most fulfilling of his life, and the kids loved him as much as he loved them, often asking if Peewee was going to be their umpire, because he was the best and made the game more enjoyable.

Peewee was a 10 year cancer survivor, which he attests to his strong faith and staying active, never letting it get him down as he stood on business and pushed through day-to-day taking care of his family and providing for his community with a smile on his face. In his younger years Peewee enjoyed hydrating, but as he got older he hydrated less and the barbecue seemed a little less burnt. He was a diehard Cowboys, Long Horns, and Rangers fan and loved playing Domino’s with his family, and was not too shabby with his fantasy teams. Peewee was a also a fan of playing Fan Duel and getting the occasional scratcher, often submitting the losing tickets for second chances. Peewee will be best remembered for the many lessons he taught his family and his community and some of his witty sayings will be cherished for generations to come.

Peewee is survived by his wife Toni Russell of San Angelo, his sons Justin Russell and wife Bianca of Arlington, Anthony Matos and wife Cortney of Colorado City, and Drew Matos and wife Megan of Odessa, by daughters Kimberly Belvin of Arlington, Angela Matos of Sweetwater, and Priscilla Matos of San Angelo, and by his grandchildren Xavier, Ethan, Caleb, Keanu, Talen, Camille, Aliya, Allyson, and Octavian. He is also survived by his brothers Mark Russell and wife Lasonia of Fort Worth, Dwayne Jackson of Abilene, and Jerry Jackson and wife Lori of Abilene, as well as by sisters Jacqueline Sanders and husband Milton of Midland, Susan Shoals of Colorado City, Regina Green of Midland, Treva Russell and husband Freddie Kingsbury of Colorado City, Barbara Deberry and husband Julius of Bristol Connecticut, and Terissa Russell Simpson and husband Ronnie of Cayuga, his uncle Willie Smith and aunt Pat Smith , as well as by a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, friends, and a community of grateful children that he mentored while on his life’s journey.

He was preceded in death by his parents, and by brothers Nathaniel Jackson, Larry Jackson, and Billy Jackson.

The family will be present for a visitation at Kiker Seale Funeral Home on Sunday September 22nd from 5-7 pm.

A Celebration of Life for Peewee will be held on Monday, September 23rd in the Kiker Seale Funeral Home Chapel at 10 am with pastor Terrilyn Fay Ross officiating, burial to follow in the Mitchell County Cemetery.

Those wishing may share a memory by visiting www.kikerseale.com