James Robert "Bob" Russell

James Robert “Bob” Russell, 96, of Waynesville, NC, born November 13, 1929, passed away peacefully on December 5, 2025. He was preceded in death by his parents, Robert “Lawerence” and Selma Rogers Russell, and sisters, Pauleen, Edith, Edna, Betty Jo, Lois, and Lucille. He is survived by his sister, Phyllis Kirkpatrick; his two children, Robert “Dean” Russell and Wren “Gay” Davis; his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Bob lived a rich and generous life defined by hard work, being a good friend to many, helping those who needed help, and a deep love for the Blue Ridge mountains he called home.

Bob proudly served his country as a decorated veteran of the Korean War. His dedication, resilience, and loyalty to his fellow veterans remained a defining point of pride throughout his life. Anytime someone asked him about Korea, he said it was the coldest place he had ever been and that he would be glad to do it all over again if needed. He lived in Louisiana after the war, working for Halliburton in the Gulf. He had many good lifelong friends in Houma, LA, the Marcels and Babins, who were his second family. After returning home to Waynesville, he built a long and respected career as a supervisor at Enka and then at Dayco, where he was known for his strong work ethic, steady leadership, and no-nonsense fairness. Bob was tough when he needed to be—but always fair, always honest, and always respected. His humor was practical and relevant.

Outside of work, Bob lived life with joy and passion. He was well known for his love of fishing, his skill in the kitchen, especially his famous banana pudding and mouth-watering hushpuppies. He loved to cook and watch people eat his cooking, which made him happy. There were never leftovers when he cooked. He especially loved traveling on his fishing trips with his buddies, like A.J. Brown, across America and Canada.

A hobby he especially loved was restoring old cars. He restored a 1953 Mercury, a 1949 panel truck, and many, many more. He enjoyed being part of the Auto Club and showing his restored cars.

He was blessed with a natural musical talent. A gifted musician, he played in many local bands and churches, sharing his love of music with anyone fortunate enough to hear him. Bob had a warm laugh, a playful sense of humor, and a gift for making good times even better. He cherished moments surrounded by friends and family, and stories that grew richer with each telling. But, if you are out of tune, he would let you know in no uncertain terms.

Bob is survived by his loving children, Dean Russell (Thea) and Wren “Gay” Davis (Rick Mull), both of Waynesville, NC. They, along with countless friends and loved ones, will forever remember his strength, his spirit, and the joy he brought into their lives.

We are having a drop-in visitation at his home, 157 Seminole Drive, Waynesville, NC 28786, on Saturday, December 13, 2025, from 2 pm to 7 pm. Refreshments will be served. Parking is limited; please ride-share. Any stories you would like to share would be appreciated. A military graveside service will be conducted in the spring.

Countless thanks to his close friends, Rick Mull and Ricky Styles, for their tireless assistance, and to his caregivers, especially Teresa Jamison. Special thanks to Gar Cutshaw for playing many musical gigs with him. Even at the end, Gar made time to play with him, as did Ray McElroy.

May his memory continue to inspire laughter, music, and kindness for years to come.

The care of Mr. Russell has been entrusted to Wells Funeral Home of Waynesville