Russell Dean Lee

Russell Dean Lee, of Little Rock, Arkansas, passed away peacefully in his sleep on October 20, 2025. He was born in Houston, Texas, and moved with his family to Poyen in 1970, when he was just five years old. Russell graduated from Poyen High School, where he formed lifelong friendships that extended across the state, many of which he maintained throughout his life.

As a young man, Russell came to faith in Christ and was baptized at Poyen Assembly of God under the ministry of Rev. Vernon Ables. He remained a devoted follower of Jesus throughout his life. Always eager to share his faith, Russell served faithfully in men’s ministry and nursing home ministry while living in Cleveland, Mississippi, where he relocated after retirement to be near his sister Terri and her husband Randy. A lover of Southern Gospel music, Russell found joy in singing wherever he worshiped.

After graduation, Russell lived in Springdale for a time before moving to Sheridan, where he lived with his father and sisters. He worked for many years at Kohler Company Faucet Operations until his retirement. Russell enjoyed fishing, college football and basketball, and all things Razorback. Above all, he cherished time spent with his family.

For the past 18 months, Russell has made his home at Hickory Heights Health and Rehabilitation Center, a place he dearly loves. In October 2024, he was ordained as a Deacon in the resident-led church formed within Hickory Heights. Russell faithfully shared the gospel with his friends and fellow residents and took part in the preaching rotation for the congregation. Both patients and staff fondly remember him as a man of sincere faith and kindness. The family extends special thanks to Michelle Kesterson, a longtime friend and nurse at Hickory Heights, for her care and compassion.

Russell was preceded in death by his brothers, Michael Wayne Lee and Samuel Mitchell Lee; his mother, Betty Lou Crump; and his father, Curtis R. Lee. He is survived by his brother, Kenny Lee, and wife Penny of Magnolia; his sister, Loretta Green and husband Doug of East End; and his sister, Terri Hatcher and husband Randy of Boyle, Mississippi.

A Celebration of Life Service is scheduled for Saturday, November 8, 2025, at noon at Poyen Assembly of God, located at 14055 Highway 270 W, Poyen, AR. Pastor Kenny Lee will officiate, and Dave Dalton will provide the eulogy.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorials be made to Hickory Heights Health and Rehabilitation Center to support their continuing mission to the community.

Arrangements by Arkansas Cremation, 10515 W Markham St, Suite B1, Little Rock, Arkansas 72205. If you would like to leave a message of condolence to the family, you may do so using the Guestbook section. 

www.arkansascremation.com