Travis Lynn Russell

a legacy of faith, hard work, generosity, and adventure.

Born in Nacogdoches, Texas, to Henry "Skinner" Ivan Russell and Betty Lou Green, Travis was a proud East Texan whose life was rooted in family, community, and an unwavering work ethic. He graduated from Central Heights High School in 1971 and often joked that many of his later degrees came from"YouTube University." He was a lifelong learner who never stopped pursuing new knowledge, whether mastering a trade, tackling a new project, or preparing for his next adventure.

Travis began his career as a janitor at Gibson's Discount in Nacogdoches before working at NIBCO in his early twenties. He later found his calling in the oilfield, working a variety of jobs before becoming an accomplished fishing tool operator. Drawing on his experience and determination, he founded Russell Drilling Co. in 1981. As founder, CEO, driller, and whatever else needed to be done, Travis built the company through hard work, integrity, and perseverance. He retired in 2020, leaving the company in the capable hands of his brother, Roger Russell, along with Josh Barrett and Leroy Barrett.

Retirement simply opened the door to new passions. Travis planted a chestnut orchard and enjoyed farming the land where he was raised. Always looking ahead, he had recently begun classes to earn his United States Coast Guard Captain's License, proving that his curiosity and ambition never  diminished.

Above all else, Travis was a man of deep faith. As a devoted member of Pleasant Hill Missionary Baptist Church, he faithfully served as a deacon, praise song leader, and teacher. His love for the Lord was evident not only in his service but also in the way he treated others—with kindness, humility, and a willingness to help anyone in need.

Travis believed life was meant to be lived to the fullest. His many hobbies reflected his adventurous spirit and boundless curiosity. He loved deep-sea fishing, sailing, flying, traveling the world, hunting and crappie fishing, riding his motorcycle, tending his garden, fixing tractors, battling gophers, playing guitar, singing in church, and spending time with family and friends. No matter what he was doing, he approached it with enthusiasm, determination, and a smile.

His commitment to serving others extended well beyond his family and church. Travis was a Master Mason and an active member of the York Rite, Scottish Rite, and Shriners Sharon Temple and the Gideon's. Professionally, he served as President of the Texas Groundwater Association, was a member of the National Groundwater Association and the Groundwater Institute, received the O.F. Jenson Contractor of the Year Award, and was honored with a Lifetime Membership in the Texas Groundwater Association. He also dedicated more than 35 years to the Central Heights ISD School Board, serving both as a member and president, helping shape the education and future of countless students.

Among his greatest adventures were his years as a member of the renowned deep-sea fishing team, Picaflor. Some of his fondest memories came while competing with the team and winning the Presidential Challenge of the Central America Cup.

While his accomplishments were many, those who knew Travis would remember him most for his generous heart, his quick wit, his willingness to lend a helping hand, and the love he poured into his family. He was a faithful husband, devoted father, proud grandfather, cherished brother, loyal friend, and mentored many. His influence will continue to be felt through the countless lives he has touched.

Travis is survived by his beloved wife, Pamela Jarrell Russell; his son, Phillip Alston Russell; his daughter, Megan Lynn Russell Bishop and husband, Don Michael Bishop; his treasured grandchildren, Andi Lynn Bishop and Jett Kyle Bishop; his sisters, Debra Curbow and husband Wayne Curbow, Martha Nell Russell, and Kathy McFadden and husband Mark McFadden; his brother, Roger Russell and wife Carol Russell; his brother-in-law, Kirk Jarrell and wife Kelli Jarrell; his sister-in-law, Tammy Russell and husband Rex Russell; along with numerous nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends.

He was preceded in death by his father, Henry "Skinner" Ivan Russell; his mother, Betty Lou Green; his father-in-law, Lawrence Alston Jarrell; and his mother-in-law, Frances Howeth Jarrell.

Travis lived a life defined by faith, service, hard work, and love. His family finds comfort in knowing that his legacy will live in the lives he influenced, the family he cherished, the company he built, and the example he set. Though he will be deeply missed, his memory will forever inspire those who were blessed to know and love him.

Travis will be remembered with a Celebration of Life at Central Heights High School in the Travis Lynn Russell Gymnasium, located at 10317 Hwy 259 N in Nacogdoches, Texas, on August 8, 2026, at 10:30 am.