Leon Russell, 65, passed away Friday, March 9, 2018, surrounded by his loving family.
Leon was born August 12, 1952 in Joplin to the late Harold Leon Russell and Beatrice Normadine Beckwith Scott.
Leon is survived by his wife, Kathy Turner; one son, Brian James Russell, wife Theresa, grandson Christian; two daughters, Lindsey Beth Hinojosa, grandson Ethan; Macey Lauren Willis, grandson Nolan, all of Long Beach, CA.; His mother, Norma Scott, Joplin; two brothers, Glenn Russell, Joplin; Buford Scott, Topeka, KS.; two sisters, Cynthia Wilken, husband Ron, Fort Worth; Rebecca Scott, Joplin; sister in law Linda Egoshi, AR.; two faithful companions Lolly and Reece. He also leaves many nieces, nephews and friends who knew him as a confidant and sincere loyal friend. Patricia, Corie, Scott, Ryan, Jerri, Cindy, Jacqueline, Breaunna, Whitney, Emily, Emma, and Samantha. He was preceded in death by his father Harold Leon Russell, Galena, KS.; brothers James Kent Russell and Richard Scott; stepfather Buford Scott.
Leon graduated from Johnson High School in Johnson, KS. He was an Eagle Scout and would fondly tell stories of catching rattlesnakes and hunting pheasants in western Kansas. He worked on the family farm and appreciated watching things grow, evidenced by his and Kathy’s garden, complete with irrigation. He proudly served in the U.S. Navy on the USS Juneau (LPD-10) ABH-3 serving in the Vietnam War, earning numerous service medals until he was released in 1974 to the Naval Reserves, settling in California to raise his family. He became an active Elks member, but his greatest joy was camping and fishing with his children. He earned his Bachelor of Science degree while working for the Veterans Affairs Administration in California.
Leon retired from Veterans Affairs Hospital of Livermore, CA., as the Chief Medical Administrator. He then relocated back to Joplin and met Kathy, his soul mate and “perfect match.” He also started a new career with U.S. Cellular, where he worked for 20 years until retiring. He was also the co-owner/ operator of Express Signs Co., R & S Used Cars, “The Dish Man” and numerous other ventures. He joined and became an active member of Christ Community United Methodist Church, participating in De Colores.
Anyone who knew Leon knew he was a computer wizard, electrical and engineering genius. He always had the right answers and was everyone’s “go-to” guy. Leon loved holidays. One of his biggest engineering feats was his Christmas and Halloween displays which grew bigger each year until he ran out of space. Thankfully his nieces, nephews and Kathy painstakingly set up his creations to his specifications, including lights set to music and animation. Halloween would draw some 500 people for candy and treats, many returning year after year much to his pleasure. He enjoyed showering his family with love and special celebrations becoming our very own Santa Claus. Immediately after Halloween, Christmas began and the decorations, shirts, and Kathy’s candy appeared. If you happened to stop by, he would always be playing some Christmas show on TV. Easter had a very special place, and his egg hunt was spectacular. His passing will create an immense void not only for his family, but for so many. We are going to miss you big guy, our patriarch.
Services are planned for Saturday, March 24th, 2 p.m. at Christ Community United Methodist Church. His pastor Chris Sloan will officiate. A Hawaiian Luau celebrating Leon’s life will follow at Big R’s Bar-B-Q.
Preparations are by Bella Vista Funeral Home and Crematory. In lieu of flowers contributions may be made to Christ Community Children’s Camp Fund. 417-781-8701; www.ccumc-joplin.org
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