Marlin Russell

Marlin Stayton Russell LaFAYETTE Marlin Stayton Russell, 84, passed away Tuesday, Sept. 27, 2016, surrounded by his family. He served in the Korean Conflict and was awarded several medals; he was very proud of his service. He worked for Riegel Textile (Mt. Vernon Mills) for 48 years. Marlin served as deacon for over 50 years serving Bethel Memorial Baptist Church, Foster Mill Baptist Church, and Walnut Grove Baptist Church. He was vital in the founding of the Walker County Fire Department Station 15 south of LaFayette, and was one of the Stations first volunteer firefighters serving the community for many years. He was an avid baseball fan playing alongside his brothers, for the Sam Wilson Waco Team in Tennessee and Georgia. The team won state tournaments, trophies and many awards. His love for the game could be seen through his coaching of baseball and girl softball. Marlin was a member of the Optimist Club and loved to travel. He was preceded in death by his wife of 46 years, Betty June Tumlin Russell; parents, Henry and Della Sharp Russell; daughter, Dana Kaye Hatcher; sister, Betty Eicchorn; and brothers, Barney, Carl and Robert Russell. Marlin is survived by daughters, Nelda June Russell Smith and Lana (Randy) Visage, all of LaFayette; sons, Kyle Marlin Russell, of LaFayette and Kevin Stayton Russell, of Fort Lauderdale, Fla.; sister, Ann Clifton; brothers, Claude Russell, J.W. (Peggy) Russell, Albert Russell, and Kenneth Russell; grandchildren, Marla York, Nathan Martin, Trey (Kim) Parrish, Nicole Duckett, Jessica Visage, and Isaac McDonald; seven great-grandchildren; several nieces and nephews; and special friend, Joyce Martin. Funeral will be held at Walnut Grove Baptist Church Friday, Sept. 30, 2016, at 2 p.m., with Pastor Joe Stephens and Ralph Waldrop officiating. Interment to follow in Walnut Grove Cemetery. Pallbearers are Jeff Russell, Chris Russell, Scotty Russell, Craig Clifton, Jeremiah Rogers, and Walker Rogers. Visitation is at the funeral home today, from 6 to 8 p.m. Arrangements are by Wallis-Wilbanks Funeral Home.