Gary C. Russell, age 84, of Liberty passed away on Monday, September 4th 2017.
He was born November 23, 1932, in Casey County, son of the late Mr. and Mrs. Herbert Russell. Gary was a Univerity of Kentucky graduate, earning two degrees, Agriculture and Engineering. He served in the US Army during the Korean Conflict, and was based in Augsburg, Germany. His professional career included building materials sales, partner in a kitchen manufacturing company, and electrification projects with Kentucky Utililities.
He married the love of his life of 63 years, Mary Patria Lee on March 19, 1954. They traveled the world, made lifelong friendships, and enjoyed the life they made together. They had 2 children, a son, Gary Mark (Lisa) Russell of Chattanooga, TN; a daughter, Leeann Foster Russell, of Memphis, TN; and 1 grandson, John Mark (Danielle) Russell of Richmond, KY. He cherished his family, loved his friends, and never met a stranger.
He was a member of the Liberty United Methodist Church were he served on many committees, sang in the choir, and was passionate about helping his congregation and community. He was a Mason and a Shriner, and was active and served as an officer with the National Association of Homebuilders and the Builders Hardware Manufacturers Association.
Gary was an antique car enthusiast, avid UK fan, practical joker, and could always be spotted wearing a smile. He lived a full life and will be truly missed by all the lives he touched.
Celebration of Life Service will be held at 3:00PM on Thursday, September 7, 2017, at McKinney Brown Funeral Home with Kim and Rodney Koger officiating. Visitation will be held on Thursday from 1PM until 3PM at McKinney-Brown Funeral Home. Burial will be held privately.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to Liberty United Methodist Church, 108 Hustonville Street, Liberty, KY 42539.
