Obituary: Harry Eugene Russell

November 26, 1937 – March 20, 2023

Harry Eugene Russell, 85, of Mitchell, passed away Tuesday, March 20, 2023, at Westview Nursing and Rehabilitation.

Born November 26, 1937, in Mitchell, he was the son of John and Mae (Terry) Russell.  He married Mary Lee Lofland on July 8, 2000.

Harry retired after 32-plus years from Carpenter Body Work. After retirement, he mowed county roads for the Lawrence County Highway Department. Harry was a lifelong farmer and helped his father operate a sawmill from the age of 14. He was a member of Bonds Chapel, a skilled wood craftsman, and an avid fisherman. Harry loved auctions and IU Basketball. He had a sense of humor that could always brighten any get-together.

His dream was to retire and travel to help people. Harry found his dream through mission teams with his church and Orange County Habitat for Humanity to clean up and rebuild.

Survivors include his wife, Mary Lee Russell of Mitchell, children, Sandy (Jack) Leatherman, Alan (Julia) Russell, Steve (Dawn) Lofland, and  Randall (Lisa) Lofland; eight grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; and siblings, Sharon Egger, Juanita Jean, and Sue (Wayne) Holt.

His parents and siblings, John Russell, Rosie Johnson, and Naomi Beebe, preceded him in death.

The funeral service will be at 11:00 a.m. Friday, March 24, at Bonds Chapel with Reverend Robert Martindale officiating.  The burial will be in the church cemetery. The family will receive friends from 4:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. Thursday, March 23, at Chastain Funeral Home and Cremation Center, and from 10:00 a.m. until the service on Friday at Bonds Chapel.

Condolences may be sent to the family at www.chastainfuneralhome.com.