Russell Lee White

Russell "Russ" Lee White, 79, of Petersburg, Illinois, passed away on Friday, November 7, 2025 at his residence. He was born on November 28, 1945 in Irving, Illinois, to Wayne and Eleanor White. He married Patricia "Pat" Kuhajda on June 29, 1974 in Salem, Illinois.
Russell attended St. Peter Catholic Church. He enjoyed tending his and Patricia's farm and taking care of their various animals and gardens. He was a teacher for 46 years at PORTA High School, teaching chemistry and math. He also taught at Lincoln Land as a professor, and drove a bus for many years.
Russell is survived by his children, Albert White, Robert (Lisa) White, Brett White, Stephanie Walters, Kayla Jones, Merl White, Charity Pratt and Elysia White, and several grandchildren. Russell was preceded in death by his wife, Patricia, who passed on July 26, 2025. He was also preceded in death by his parents.
A funeral service will be held for Russell on Friday, November 14, 2025 at 11:00am at Hurley Funeral Home in Petersburg. Burial will follow at Rose Hill Cemetery. The family will receive friends the evening prior on November 13, 2025, from 5-7pm at the funeral home.
Memorial contributions may be made to St. Peter Catholic Church, 711 S. 6th St, Petersburg, Illinois 62675.