Ronald Gary Russell

 Ronald Gary Russell age 77 of Gainesville, TX who was formerly of the Chestnut Hill community of Dandridge, TN passed away Tuesday, July 30, 2024. It is with deep sadness that we announce his passing as he was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, Ron peacefully departed this life at home surrounded by his wife Penny, daughter Kelli, and son Ryan. Born at home on November 18, 1946 in Dandridge, Tennessee, Ron was a pillar of strength and compassion. Throughout his 77 years, he was known for his unwavering dedication to his family and his remarkable ability to bring joy and laughter into any room. Ron worked for Bush Brothers Canning in Louisiana and Tennessee for 30+ years, Reliable Power Tongs in Gainesville for 20+ years, and he retired from Morrison Dickson Pharmaceuticals in 2012. His commitment to his work was a testament to his character. He is survived by his wife Penny Russell, son Ryan Russell, daughter Kelli Triplett, son-in-law Clayton Triplett, grandsons Christopher and Jackson Triplett, his dog Bingo, and extended family members Missy English, Mark Medford and Alice Nephew, Mike and Melinda Medford, Matt Medford and Melanie Scates, best friend Charles Kelly, a multitude of grandchildren and great-grandchildren, and a host of nephews and cousins from Tennessee. Ron was preceded in death by parents Anna and Hollis Russell, brother Ken Russell, first wife Barbara Kelley Russell, and a host of aunts, uncles, and cousins in Tennessee. Ron was a charming soul—outgoing, an attentive listener, and a captivating storyteller. He had a knack for spinning tales, often recounting his adventures with motorcycles and vintage cars, relishing every detail. His passion for automobiles was unmatched; he could identify any car make and model just by a glimpse from afar. His hobbies included collecting pipes, knives, and firearms. He enjoyed his woodworking projects—be it crafting clocks or cabinets. He loved spending time in his workshop, surrounded by his vast collection of tools, and his ‘fleet’ of five tractors, which he maintained with precision—enjoying the work of tightening belts, changing oil, and swapping filters. Outside of his hobbies, he enjoyed a good joke and teasing others. His passion for adventure drove him to ride motorcycles and explore new routes with his brother Ken. Although he once took a break from riding and sold his bike, he missed it so much after six months that he bought another one. He continued riding until he was 75. Ron was always eager to explore new restaurants. And he frequently enjoyed watching the same classic Westerns over and over again with his son, Ryan. He found joy in every project, every story told, and every moment spent with loved ones. His legacy of love and his warm, guiding presence will be profoundly missed by all who knew him. Ron will be interred at a later date at Byrd Cemetery located at one of his favorite locations, a beautiful mountaintop in Chestnut Hill, Tennessee. A private memorial service for family members will be held at a later date in mid-September. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the charity of your choice in Ron’s honor. You may register your condolences at www.geojcarroll.com or www.farrarfuneralhome.com. The family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to caregivers and friends for their support and compassion during this time. Ron’s memory will be cherished forever in the hearts of those he leaves behind. May he rest in peace. ARRANGEMENTS BY FARRAR FUNERAL HOME, DANDRIDGE, TN