It is with great sadness that the family of John Clinton Russell, Jr. announces his passing on Monday, January 13, 2025, at the age of 77. John was a resident of Henderson, Nevada, at the time of his passing.

John was born on February 22, 1947, in Akron, Ohio, to John, Sr. and Evelyn Russell. He grew up alongside his younger brother, Bill Russell, and graduated from Coventry High School in Portage Lakes, Ohio. After high school, John answered the call to serve his country, enlisting in the United States Air Force. Throughout his distinguished 20-year career, he rose to the rank of Master Sergeant, serving in Vietnam and at bases in Florida, Delaware, Colorado, Alaska, New Mexico, and eventually Nellis Air Force Base in Las Vegas, Nevada. As a member of the 4450th Tactical Group, John was instrumental in the groundbreaking F-117A Nighthawk Stealth Fighter program. He retired from active duty in 1989.

On June 30, 1972, John married his beloved wife, Marilyn Kasarda, and they were blessed with a daughter, Kristen, who—together with her husband, Mike Oliver—brought two cherished grandchildren, Addison and Easton, into John's life. John's passion for life extended to his many hobbies and interests, including spending time with his grandchildren, hunting and shooting, working on and admiring Corvettes, playing golf, and caring for a wide variety of animals—earning him the affectionate title of the "animal whisperer."

John is survived by his devoted wife of 52 years, Marilyn Russell; his daughter, Kristen (Mike) Oliver; grandchildren, Addison, and Easton; and his brother, Bill (Pat) Russell. He was preceded in death by his parents, John, Sr., and Evelyn Russell.

A committal service with military honors will be held on Thursday, February 20, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. at the Southern Nevada Veterans Memorial Cemetery (1900 Veterans Memorial Drive, Boulder City, NV 89005). Following the service, family and friends are invited to gather at the home of Kristen and Mike Oliver beginning at 4:00 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made in John's name to the ASPCA , honoring his deep love for animals. John's legacy of service, devotion to family, and passion for life will be remembered with gratitude and affection by all who knew and loved him.