“I’LL BUILD THEM UP AND TEAR THEM DOWN…” was an oft-repeated quote of Mr. Robert “Smokey” Russell when he’d talk about his job as a brick mason.
Mr. Russell was born in Wayne County, MS on November 15, 1954 to the union of the late Mr. Robert and Lucille (nee Harris) Russell. He worked for several years as a brick mason, which he enjoyed until he retired. In his spare time, he liked to go fishing.
February 15, 2023 was the date on which he was called to depart his life at Wayne General Hospital. In addition to his parents, he was preceded by a brother, Ray Lee Russell.
He is survived by eight sisters: Katherine Russell, Kathleen Russell, Alberta Lewis, Mary Ann Russell, Linda Russell, Sarah Russell, Bessie McCann, Pearlie Mae Leggins, and one brother: Jessie Lee Russell.
Funeral services will be held Thursday, February 23, 2023 at 1:00 PM at New Light MB Church, with services officiated by Rev. Ronnie Horne. Interment will follow at the church cemetery. There will be a viewing period for Mr. Russell Wednesday, February 22, 2023 from 12:00 noon until 6:00 PM at Turner Funeral Home.
To send flowers
to the family or plant a tree
in memory of Robert Earl “Smokey” Russell, please visit our floral store.