Brad Richard Russell, 76, of Sparta, passed away Feb. 12, 2025, at NHC Healthcare of Sparta, while surrounded by family.
Born Oct. 29, 1948, in Fostoria, Ohio, to Richard Earl Russell and Betty Mae Price Russell, he was one of three children.
After graduating, in spring 1966, from Fort Myers Senior High School, in Fort Myers, Florida, Brad married Maureen “Joy” Rapozo. These high school sweethearts enjoyed a beautiful 58-year marriage and had two sons, Chad Richard and Ryan Patrick Russell.
In 1968, Brad joined the U.S. Army as an MP Sentry dog handler and was honorably discharged, in 1971. He always had a soft spot for animals, especially dogs. In his free time, Brad enjoyed fishing, drawing, and tinkering, as well as creating all sorts of items with his carpentry skills. After dedicating 36 years to the Toho Water Authority, in Kissimmee, Florida, Brad and Joy moved to Sparta, in 2010, to enjoy their retirement. Brad was a member of First Baptist Church of Sparta.
In addition to his parents, Brad was preceded in death by his sons, Chad Richard and Ryan Patrick Russell.
Brad is survived by his wife, Joy Russell, of Sparta; siblings, Wayne Russell, of Sparta, Marsha (Dick) Bramhall, of Cape Coral, Florida; and several nieces, nephews, and friends.
The family is following Brad’s wishes for cremation.
Oak Lawn Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.
