John Riley Russell Obituary in Bowie at White Family Funeral Home

Obituary For John Riley Russell

John Riley Russell, 76 of Montague, TX, died Sunday, July 14th, 2024, following several battles with cancer.

At John's request, there will be no formal service, but there will be a casual family visitation at the White Family Funeral Home in Bowie on Saturday, July 20th, from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m.

John desired to be cremated, and his ashes joined with Gerry's in time and to be spread over his home place in Montague.

John was born in West Columbia, Texas, to Carl and Pauline Teague Russell on May 27, 1948. He was welcomed to the family by his big sister, Lynda.

The family moved to Bowie, Texas, so that Carl could start Russell's Department Store in 1951. John graduated from Bowie High School in 1966; he excelled in basketball under Coach Gayno Shelton's guidance. John continued his education at Midwestern University where he was a member of Sigma Nu Fraternity.

After marrying Gerry Galloway in 1968, John worked for General Dynamics, which later became Lockheed Martin. At that company, he became a world traveler. He loved traveling, but his favorite place was at home with his wife and his beautiful daughter, Brandy Michelle, who was born in 1970.

After retiring in 2004, John and Gerry moved to Montague to live out their lives. They were blessed with two fantastic grandsons, Jax Riley Williams and Kaz Russell Williams. John took great pride in that both boys were named after him.

John is survived by his wife of fifty-six years, Gerry Russell, his daughter Brandy and her wonderful husband, Paul Williams, and his two grandsons, Jax and Kaz Williams.

He also leaves behind his loving sister Lynda Neeld and her daughters, Holly Bullock and Shawna Tomlin.

Expressions of sympathy to John's family are appreciated, but please do not bother with flowers or memorials; instead, do something nice for a family member, friend, or stranger; pet a pooch and think of John. Also, he would stress to all young people to stay away from tobacco products.

Arrangements entrusted to the White Family Funeral Home of Bowie, Texas.

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My condolences to the entire family, especially to Jax and Kaz who I met through Leo Lions projects. While I did not know John, Jax & Kaz were exemplary examples of their family. My thoughts and prayers are with you all. Lion Jenny Rizzolo.

My deep and heartfelt condolences to all of you on the loss of your precious loved one, and my lifelong friend. Charley Burkhart

Mrs. Russell, my thoughts and prayers go out to you. So sorry for your loss. Thinking of you. Jean Hughes Meyers

I met Johnny at Russell's Department Store many many years ago. He was a very pleasant man and he will be missed. Prayers for peace and comfort. Melinda Cox Nored

I'm sorry Mrs. Russell. Deborah Hamilton

I worked with John all over the world. We lived together for a while in Ankara, Turkey back in the early 90s. He was a great friend and will be missed by all who had the pleasure to know him. RIP my friend.

Johnny always made me feel welcome and even part of the family. We would sit for hours talking about everything from TV/movies to travel to family. He loved his family and took such well-deserved pride in their beautiful home. We extend our sympathies to Gerry, Brandy, Paul, Jax and Kaz. He has left a wonderful legacy. We will miss him.

So many wonderful and special times we've had with John, Jerry, and family. So loving, generous, and fun...John will certainly be missed! Love and prayers!!! J&L Piper

Dearest Gerry,Brandi, and family. My heart is broken for all of you💔 Our family has loved yours since we came to Bowie in 1967. John was a super kind man. Deepest condolences and prayers to you.🙏🙏

Prayers, LOVE, Care n Concern are sent the Russell Family's way
My first memories of Johnny were shopping with my Mom @ Russell's -- Johnny always seemed so pleased to be helping us get the jeans or shirts needed at the tyme -- Over the past several years I've been very blessed to get to spend quality tyme with Johnny n Gerry at their Montague home, when I'm back home visiting. Thanx for all the kindness and good memories Johnny!! You are already missed!!

Our staff will continue to keep your family in our prayers. We thank you for allowing us to serve your family.

White Family Funeral Home | Bowie, Texas