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HAMPTON - Russell Lee Ewell, 81, passed away at his home of 51 years on January 14, 2017 after a day surrounded by family and friends. Russell was born on September 28, 1935 in Newport News to Blanche and Russell Ewell. After graduating from Hampton High School in 1955, he spent 20 years serving in the Air Force. Russell served remote tours in Vietnam, Alaska and Korea. Repeated assignments at Langley AFB allowed his family to remain in Hampton for most of his service. Russell retired from the military to work at and then own L.G. Smith & Son on Kecoughtan Road. The love of his life was Kathryn Joy (Corbell) Ewell, married 62 years. The pride of his life was his three children: Charlie (wife Jorja), Terri (husband Paul) and Mark. The joy of his life was his 6 grandchildren and 4 great-grandchildren. The center of his life was God, whom he served faithfully at Ivy Memorial Baptist as a deacon. The favorite times of his life were spent in the woods, hunting with the Laf-a-Lot Rod & Gun Club (lifetime member) and Gates Hunt Club. Russell will be remembered for his ready wit and a generous spirit that made him beloved by all who knew him. Visitation will be on Saturday, January 21st at 10 a.m., followed by a memorial service at 11 a.m., at Ivy Memorial Baptist Church in Hampton. In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts may be made to the Food Pantry at Ivy Memorial.
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6 Entries
Joy - remembering you and your family at this time. Earl always said you married on your 17th birthday. I know we both married good men,
Carolyn
Carolyn Jones
Family
January 13, 2024
I first met Russell back in the mid 90's when I would bring cars to L.G. Smith and Son for state inspections. He was always smiling, and telling jokes. He was a pleasure to be around. I haven't seen him in several years now, but the last time I saw him, he was just as I knew him before. My deepest condolences to his family and friends.
Danny Mason
January 23, 2017
Goodbye, Old Friend. You and your wife, and my dear friend, Joy,
brought a lot of joy and friendship to my life when I needed it most. Not many people get to say "they were there" .. when... but I was. and you're very welcome, it was a pleasure. May God bless you and your beautiful family. We'll meet again. Say Hi to Uncle Harry, for me.
Love & tears, Jean
Jean Wall Nichols
January 20, 2017
Lo I am with you alway... Matthew 28:20a
May you find comfort in knowing God will help you during this time of Russell's passing.
Earl and Carolyn
Earl Jones
January 19, 2017
Mark and family,
I am so sorry to hear about your Dad. I know he was so special to you all. May your cherished memories, you hold close to your heart, bring you comfort during this difficult time. My thoughts and prayers are with you all.
Vickie Prince
January 18, 2017
Joy, so sorry for your loss. You are in my thoughts and prayers
Mary Ann McGuriman
January 18, 2017
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