Obituary For James Edward Russell
James Edward Russell, 90, of Alexandria, passed away peacefully at St. Elizabeth Healthcare Hospice on April 16, 2026.
Jim was preceded in death by his parents, Morgan “Jack” Russell and Nancy (née Marshall) Russell; brothers, Johnny (Arlene) Russell, Frank (Eileen) Russell, Larry Russell, Kenny (Maryann) Russell, and Donald (“Tooty”) Russell; sisters, Elizabeth (Floyd) Ervin, Polly (Mel) Pemberton and Nancy Glaun; stepson, Wayne (Debbie) Walz.
Jim is survived by his wife of 65 years, Judith (née Dammert) Russell; stepson, Steve (Tammy) Walz; daughter, Shelley (Tim) Kelly; 9 grandchildren; 15 great-grandchildren; and 3 great-great-grandchildren.
Jim attended Bellevue High School and enlisted in the United States Navy in 1954. He served as a machinist aboard the USS Zellars (DD-777) destroyer and was stationed in Cuba. During his service, he participated in shooting competitions and received the Navy Expert Rifle Medal, National Defense Service Medal, and Good Conduct Medal. He developed many valuable skills during his time in the Navy, learning to fix and repair a wide range of things, skills he carried into his home life. He could fix or rebuild just about anything and was affectionately known as “Mr. Fix-It.”
After his military service, Jim worked for NuTone as a forklift operator and blueprint inspector until his retirement. Jim enjoyed playing golf, pitching horseshoes at the Bellevue Vets, and camping with Judy, family, and friends across the country.
Memorial donations are suggested to St. Elizabeth Foundation (Hospice), 1 Medical Village Dr, Edgewood, KY 41017.
Services will be held at the convenience of the family. Arrangements are entrusted to Alexandria Funeral Home. Online condolences may be shared