Jeffrey Todd Russell Obituary (1972 - 2023)

At home, surrounded by his family, Jeffrey Todd Russell, 51 of Taylorville, passed away on August 18, 2023, after going to battle with MSA-C, a brutal, inconceivable neurological disease. Naturally, it had to be an uncommon disorder. Jeff never pursued an ordinary path. His mantra was always: Bigger, Better, Now! Jeff was the gentlest of giants, a virtuous leader, and friend to all. He was born on January 27, 1972, in Springfield OH, to Kermit Dean Russell and Kathleen Elaine (Brookhart) Russell. He married the love of his life, Stephanie Russell, on January 15, 2021, and she survives. Following the completion of his Mechanical Engineering degree at Ohio University, he obtained his MBA at Wright State University. Jeff’s career included 13 roles of increasing responsibility, ultimately becoming the VP of Global Operations/Manufacturing for a major technology company. Jeff’s professional reputation is fondly remembered by those who worked with him, as he was a master problem solver who cared deeply for those who reported to him and depended on his leadership. If you had the honor of becoming friends with Jeff, it was for life. Even after more than 20 years he still cherished his time at OU with his Marching Band 110 family. If there ever was a degree in retail therapy, Jeff would have been called the Master Retail Therapist. Once again, Bigger, better, NOW! He had a passion for Harleys and BMWs, each one being given a unique name, they should truly be listed here as his children… but that list is too long. He knew every science fiction movie. He knew the name of all IPA beers and could drink every single one of you under the table, not mentioning names here. He loved the thrill of traveling, visiting many countries including Australia, New Zealand, France, Italy, Germany, Ireland, England, China, South Africa, etc. Not only are his memories carried on by his wife: Stephanie Russell of Taylorville, IL; step-children: Lindsay Moomey (Cody) of Nokomis, IL; Caleb Johnson (Madi) of Fox Lake, IL; Canden Johnson of Urbana, IL; Cayden Johnson of Minneapolis MN; step-grandchildren: Laila Mae Kious; Benson Moomey; Arlo Moomey; Solomon Moomey; Finnley (Finny Fish) Johnson; Mother Kathy Russell (Jack Metz) of Urbana OH, sister: Bethany Brown of Cable OH; and his much loved nephew Tyson Brown of Cable OH, but all who had the honor of knowing him. He was proceeded in death by his father Kermit Dean Russell (Mary Sue). Cremation rites have been accorded and services are pending. Please join us in Celebrating the life of Jeffrey Todd Russell at his sister’s farm on September 23, 2023, 7451 E. US Highway 36, Cable Ohio, 43009. Memorials contributions in Jeff’s name can be made to the Jud and Frank Lawler Memorial Scholarship Fund by visiting give.ohio.edu/funds/lawler (the Give Now button) or checks made payable to The OU Foundation, PO Box 869, Athens OH 45701 and write LAWLER in the memo. In closing, one favorite movie quote Jeff used on all of us “You Shut Your Mouth When You’re Talking to Me!”