1941-2022

Jerry Gene Russell, 81, known as “Pepaw” by family and friends, passed away on October 7, 2022, in Tyler. Jerry was born May 17, 1941, in Dallas to Albert Eugene Russell and Essie Glee Stafford Russell. He married Joyce Pawlik Russell on April 4, 1971.

Jerry served for four years in the Marine Corp. After that, he spent 10 years serving in the Garland Police Department and 29 years at the Dallas Fire Department where he retired in 1999.

Jerry’s true pride and joy was traveling and roping with family and friends. He spent his day tending to cattle and horses, golfing, praying for rain, moving hay, reading historical books, “encouraging” ropers, and prepping for roping at his house or in the surrounding areas. He enjoyed 50 years of marriage to the love of his life, Joyce Russell.

Jerry was preceded in death by his parents, Albert Eugene and Glee Russell; wife, Joyce Pawlik Russell, and sister, Glenda Sue Roberts.

Left to cherish Jerry’s memory are children: Cindy Surber; Robert (Mary) Gideon; Russell (Cheryl) Gideon; grandchildren, Keith Surber Gunnar and Tanner Gideon; Cheyenne and Cash Gideon; great-granddaughter, Terreallyn Surber, and Michael (Sharman) Goodman.

Visitation was on Tuesday October 11, at Eubank Funeral Home in Canton, with a Rosary recited at 7 p.m.

The funeral mass was held and celebrated Wednesday October 12, at St. Therese Catholic Church with Rev Jesudoss Thomas officiating.

Burial was Saturday, October 15, 2022, at the St. George Catholic Cemetery in George West, TX.

Pallbearers were Keith Surber, Gunnar Gideon, Tanner Gideon, Cash Gideon, Zack Bocco, and Garrett Gonzalez. Honorary Pallbearers were Gary Wallace, Roy Deen, Keith Ragland, John Evans, Joel Hitt, and Clif Rieken.

Services entrusted to Eubank Funeral Home, Canton.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be donated to St. Therese Charity.