Leo J “Jay” Russell passed away on Saturday, March 6, 2021, at his home
in Natoma, KS, at the age of 85. He was born on December 24, 1935, to
James and Ruth (Selbe) Russell in Ellis, KS. He was united to Vesta
(Hrabe) Shannon on November 10, 1968. The couple was blessed with a son,
Chris.
Leo grew up in Rooks County and graduated from Plainville High
School in 1953. Following High School Jay served in the United States
Air Force/SAC flying the DEW (Defense Early Warning) line where he was
exposed to nuclear energy flying with atomic bombs. This resulted in
acute Myeloid Leukemia that caused his death. After his honorable
discharge he attended Fort Hays State University and then went on to
teach at Plainville Public Schools until his retirement. He loved
teaching, flying, gardening, music, and of course his family.
Left to cherish his memories is his wife Vesta Russell of the home;
son, Chris (Jennifer) Russell of Cheyenne, WY; and brothers, Jesse
(Mary) Russell, Dennis (Judy) Russell, Robert (Linda) Russell, Wayne
(Jean) Russell, Don (Linda) Russell, Charles (Delene) Russell, and Kevin
(Theresa) Russell.
He is preceded in death by his parents James and Ruth Russell;
brothers, James, Jerry, Joseph, and Leslie Russell; and two sisters,
Louise and Maurita.
Jay’s request was to not have any services.
Memorials are suggested to the Hospice of Phillipsburg and CASA
(Court Appointed Special Advocate) and may be sent in care of
Plumer-Overlease Funeral Home, 320 SW 2nd St., Plainville, KS 67663.
A special thanks to Dr. Coe (formerly of Hays) and Dr. Accurso of
Hays, and the staff at Rooks County Medical Center – Ron Williams, Lisa,
Sandy & Joy.