Clifford Russell

(From Mason-Woodard Mortuary)

Clifford Ray Russell, age 74 of Joplin, Mo., passed away late Saturday, December 10, 2016 at the Joplin Gardens Nursing Center following an illness.

Clifford was born on February 17, 1942 in Joplin, the son of Cecil and Margaret (Lowe) Russell. He has been a lifetime area resident. Clifford worked as coal miner, a welder and taught Vocational Tech at the Lamar Area Vocational-Tech School in Lamar, Mo. He was a member of the First Baptist Church of Lamar. In his spare time, Clifford enjoyed being an auctioneer.

Whether as a welder, auctioneer, husband, father, grandpa or friend, Clifford lead a life dedicated to hard work and generosity. In which, he reflected the selfless love of Christ in all he did. He also found joy in instilling these same values into his children.

He married Glenna Butcher on May 29, 1969, she survives. Additional survivors include his mother, Margaret, three sons; David Russell and wife Brandi of Oronogo, Mo., Jimmy Russell and wife Janene of Joplin, Jacob Russell and fiancé Kenna of Lamar, two daughters; Elaina Watkins and husband Alex of Joplin, Regina Tebow of Mt. Vernon, Mo., two brothers; Jack Russell of Joplin, Steve Russell of Rogers, Ar., three sisters; Dixie Barila of Joplin, Karen Clingan of Webb City, Mo., Pat Anderson of Carl Junction, Mo., and ten grandchildren. Clifford was preceded in death by his father, Cecil, and by his brother, Gene Russell.

Funeral services have been scheduled for 2:00 p.m. Wednesday, December 14, 2016 at the Mason-Woodard Chapel in Joplin. Brother Robert Hodson, will officiate. Burial will follow at Paradise Cemetery in Jasper, Mo. The family will receive friends prior to the service, starting at 1:00 p.m. Wednesday.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Mason-Woodard Mortuary & Crematory.