Richard T. Russell, Jr.

Born February 9, 1947, passed away peacefully the evening of May 31, 2016 after a courageous battle against ALS, Leukemia and many other health issues.

Dick deeply loved his God, country, wife and children, grandchildren, sister & numerous other relatives. He accepted Jesus Christ as his personal Savior after a Promise Keepers conference in Dallas, Texas, and was subsequently baptized at Champion Forest Baptist Church, Houston, Texas, on June 5, 1999. He and his wife have been members of Community of Faith Church in Hockley, Texas, since its' inception in 2003, and COF remained an important part of his life until his recent passing. Many of you reading this knew him as a father figure on a personal level, and as a mentor on the professional side of his life.

He graduated West Point College in 1968, and proudly served his country in Vietnam. Prior to Vietnam, he completed Ranger, Airborne, and Jumpmaster schools, so Airborne Wings and the Ranger Tab became a part of his uniform. He was awarded the Bronze Star for Valor, Bronze Star for Service, Army Commendation Medal, several air medals and the Combat Infantryman's Badge in Vietnam, while serving in the 9 th and the 25 th Infantry.

In 1992, Dick and his wife Marti founded Dimar Valve & Fitting, Inc., and aside from his church affiliation considers Dimar to be one of his greatest legacies.

Dick is survived by his wife Marti, with whom he shared the last 29 years of his life. His children, Stephanie Elaine Shiflet and husband Garvin, Cindy Rife and husband Ray, Shawn Thomas Russell and fiancé Mary, Jonny Gantt and girlfriend Julie, and Jimmy R Gantt. Also his sister Cathy Janak and husband Larry, numerous grandchildren and other relatives. He was preceded in death by his parents Richard T Russell, Sr., and his wife Margaret Read Russell.

Proverbs 9:9-11  Fear of the Lord is the Beginning of Wisdom

Instruct the wise and they will be wiser still; teach the righteous and they will add to their learning. The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom. and knowledge of the Holy One is understanding. For through wisdom your days will be many, and years will be added to your life. If you are wise, your wisdom will reward you; if you are a mocker, you alone will suffer.

PLEASE:  No perfumes, colognes or other products with fragrance at any of the ceremonies.  Thank you for your consideration!

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Community of Faith Church, Hockley, Texas, or your local ALS foundation: The Houston office is 26119 I-45N, Suite 202, Spring, Texas 77380.