Bob Russell

(From Parker Mortuary)

Robert “Bob” Daniel Russell, age 86, Joplin, passed away on Saturday, August 10, 2024 at his home surrounded by family.

Robert was born September 10, 1937 in Claremore, OK, to the late Samuel Robert Russell and Mary Belle (Sullivan) Russell. He grew up near Oaks, OK where he graduated from Oaks High School in 1955. At 17 he enlisted in the US Navy where he trained as a machinist and served on destroyer USS Henly DD 762 from 1955-1958. 

In 1963 he moved to Caney, Ks with Wheatley Valve Co where he met and married Judy, his wife of 61 years. They lived in Tulsa, OK and Florissant, Mo prior to moving to Joplin, Mo to work at Vickers in 1969. In 1990 he opened The Fiddle Shop on South Main Street. As a luthier, he repaired stringed instruments for the local schools, students and musicians. He began playing music when he was a young boy, fiddle and guitar. He and his brothers played music at local venues. 

For 35 years, starting in the 1970’s his country swing band, Cherokee Country, provided entertainment for dances at American Legions, VFW’s, Elks and Moose Lodges, and many various venues in Arkansas, Kansas, Oklahoma and Missouri. He wrote and recorded country music songs for himself and major artists. He loved music and entertaining. He will be missed by many. Robert attended Immanuel Lutheran Church of Joplin, Mo.

In addition to his parents, Robert was preceded in death by a sister, Peggy Fouts, her husband James and brother, James “JR” Russell.

Survivors include his wife Judith Ann (Bright) Russell; daughter Candice Dawn Stansfield and husband Jon of Sparks, NV; son Jeff Russell of Lawton, Ok; brothers, Joe Russell and wife Joy; Gary Russell and wife Juanita, all of Oaks, Ok. He is also survived by many nieces and nephews all of whom were precious to him and loved dearly.

No formal services are planned. Cremation arrangements are under the direction of Parker Mortuary. His final resting place will be in the Russell Double Springs Family Cemetery in Oaks, Ok.

Let the children pick the flowers

Let them see the beauty there

Let them study God’s creations

That were grown with love and care

Let the children pick the flowers

That’s what God’s own words would be

Let the little ones pick the flowers

That’s their way of loving me

~ Robert Daniel Russell

Chorus from “Let the Children Pick the Flowers” a song written by Robert Daniel Russell.