On Wednesday, May 22, 2024, Jimmy Dean Russell, loving husband, father and grandfather, passed away at the age of 77.

Jimmy was born on February 17, 1947, in Altus, Oklahoma to Letha Wright Thompson and Roy L. Russell. His childhood years were spent among relatives in Tipton, OK. Serving our country, he joined the Merchant Marines/United States Coast Guard in 1963. In 1965, he enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corp for two years and was sent to Vietnam. On July 18, 1970, Jimmy married Nancy Jeanne Danton and they raised two sons, Christopher and Kevin, and a daughter, Kelly.

As a successful businessman, Jimmy established many companies throughout his life and worked hard for his family. He was the founder of Valley Custom Homes and VBS Mortgage (now F&M Mortgage). Jimmy turned those companies over to his sons and had been able to enjoy semi-retirement. He even had time to write a book about his young life experiences! Jimmy was a kind-hearted, generous man with more friends than can be counted.

He took great pleasure in serving on the Board of Directors of the Virginia Manufacturing and Modular Housing Association (VAMMHA). He was proud to be Chairman (2 1/2 years) during his time on the Board. (12 years) Jim was very interested in the scholarship program that VAMMHA had established for high school seniors going to college. He had a vision to grow and expand the fund to include college students, vocational tech students and others of higher learning. In 2019, following his accomplishment of the fund’s growth, VAMMHA established the “Jimmy D. Russell Award” to recognize the top applicant each year. Jim was so surprised at the announcement and recognition of this honor during the convention.

Jimmy loved the entire family get-together celebrations. Christmas day and birthday parties were very important for him to enjoy. The family going to the beach together every June was a “must.” He always held a contest of some sort for the eight grandkids with awesome prizes he provided. Last year was a paired-up talent show of four acts. He loved their diverse creativity.

Jimmy was preceded in death by his father, Roy, his mother, Letha, his brothers, Gary Lynn and Randy Dale, and his sister Dianna Gale. He is survived by his wife, Nancy, his four children; Jamie (Darren) Kysar of Norman, OK, Christopher (Krista) Russell of Rockingham, VA, Kevin (Dia) Russell of Rockingham, VA, and Kelly (Logan) Welsh of Leesburg, VA, his grandchildren; Abby, Dawson, Marley, River, Ayla, Chloe, Mason, Regan, Alex and Keith, his great-grandchildren; Candice and Summer and many cousins, nieces, and nephews.

The family will receive friends at Kyger Funeral Home in Harrisonburg on Friday evening, May 31, 2024, from 5-7 p.m. The Celebration of Life service will be conducted at Harrisonburg Baptist Church, 501 South Main Street, on Saturday, June 1, 2024, at 2 p.m., with the church open at 1:15 p.m. Reverend Dr. Matthew Winters and Reverend Eli Withers will be officiating. Reception at the church following burial at Rest Haven Memorial Gardens.

In lieu of flowers, donations to the Wounded Warrior Project are appreciated. PO Box 758516 Topeka, Kansas 66675-8516 or online.