Lovingly known as Russ or Papa, he lived his life as a devoted Christian and family man, he wholeheartedly loved the Lord and his wife. Russ would start and end his days by kissing his wife and telling her how much he loved her.
Amongst his favorite past times, you could always find him outside, whether it was bass fishing, boating, riding his Honda Gold Wing or smoking his pipe, Russ kind hearted nature never knew a stranger. He also deeply enjoyed filling his pockets with candy to gift to the many children that came across his way.
Truly an inspiration to many, it was said he could carry a tune on any instrument that was ever placed on his hands. Russ also enjoyed being a square dance caller for many years.
Russ is survived by his beloved wife of 72 years, Angie Kelly, children, Ronnie Sue, Sam, Rusty, Rocky (Becky) and Crystal, his sister, Marie Ward, grandchildren, Mitchell (Shannon), Trisha, Brianna (Josh), Amanda (Kevin) and Tyler, great grandchildren, Kortney (Jacob), Easton, Trinity, Sophia and Desirea, great-great grandchildren, Austin and Annistyn as well as his fur baby and buddy, “Wart”.
He was preceded in death by his parents, William and Beatrice Kelly and two great grandsons, Colby Russell and Caden Kelly.
Pallbearers will be Rocky, Mitch, Jacob, Easton, Larry Swindel and Bob Whitegon.
A Visitation will take place at Eastern Gate Memorial Funeral Home, 1985 West Nine Mile Road, Pensacola FL 32534 on Friday, March 14, 2025, from 12:00 pm- 1:00 pm followed by a Service at 1:00 pm. Burial will take place at Eastern Gate Memorial Gardens Cemetery.
