PEORIA - Jesse James Russell Sr., 73, of Peoria passed away at 8:15 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 13, 2014, at Proctor Hospital.
He was born on May 28, 1941, in Tchula, Miss., to the late Elmore Russell and Mary Watson.
Jesse was a family man; he loved to tease family members about their cooking. He was a gentle giant who loved to tell jokes and shoot pool. He was a people person who never met a stranger; he would talk to any and every one he encountered as if they were old friends.
He leaves to cherish his memories two sons, Jesse Russell Jr. and Tyrone Russell, both of San Diego, Calif.; three daughters, Priscilla Ammons and Beverly Johnson, both of Peoria, and Ruby Russell of Las Vegas, Nev.; nine brothers, Jay Van (Karen) Russell Sr. of Chicago, Ill., Pastor Samuel (Deborah) Russell and Terrance Russell, both of Peoria, Gregory (Jane) Russell of Little Rock, Ark., Benjamin Russell of Carbondale, Ill., Michael Russell, Reginald (Stephany) Russell Sr., Timothy (Beverly) Russell Sr. and Elmore Russell Jr.; three sisters, Lula Lyons, Pamela Russell and Tina (Curtis) Rucker, all of Peoria; a host of grandchildren and great-grandchildren; along with a host of uncles, aunts, nieces, nephew, cousins and dear friends who adored and will miss him dearly.
Jesse was preceded in death by his parents, six brothers and two sisters.
A home-going celebration will be held at noon today, Saturday, Sept. 20, 2014, at New Testament Fellowship Church, with visitation commencing one hour prior at 11 a.m. Pastor Samuel Russell will officiate. The family will receive friends at 1604 N. Linn St., Peoria. Interment will be private.
Arrangements were made especially for Jesse's family and professionally directed by T.W. Parks Colonial Chapel.
Online condolences or words of encouragement can be made at www.twparkschapel.com.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Nicole Proctor
September 23, 2014
My heart was deeply sad to hear about the loss of my dear friend Mr. Russell. I had the pleasure of meeting him when I worked at Pierson Hills. There was not a day go by I would see him and say hey Mr. Russell and he would put the biggest smile on his face and say hi Nicole and that just made both of our day! My prayers go out to the family God Bless!
Vickie Kingcade-King
September 22, 2014
May God bless & keep you during your time of sorrow.
Jackie Gray
September 21, 2014
God bless this family, Jessie was a very nice friend whom we will all miss seeing around here. Heaven is where we'll meet again.
Jackie Gray
September 21, 2014
God bless this family, Jessie was a very nice friend whom we will all miss seeing around here. Heaven is where we'll meet again.
Michael Young
September 20, 2014
My deepest sympathy is extended to the Russell Family in the passing of our loved one.
May your faith and many precious memories be sources of inspiration in the days ahead.
My prayers are with you.
Minister Robert E. and Irma J. Costic and Sons
September 19, 2014
The Costic family extends to your family our sincere condolence. Be encouraged in knowing that we are praying for your strength.
Higher Dimensions Praise & Worship Church Rev. R.W. Randle, Pastor
September 19, 2014
The church family at Higher Dimensions Praise & Worship Church, Peoria, Il, share in your sorrow during this most trying time. Be encouraged in knowing that God will give you the strength to carry on. We will be praying for your family today and in the days to come. Remember that not only will God SEE you through, but He will also CARRY you through.
jesse johnson
September 19, 2014
jesse and i go back to grade school may god give you peaca and understanding in your time of sorrow
Minister Tonja Scott-Pate
September 19, 2014
R.I.P. Mr. Russell and may God's Holy Spirit bring comfort to the hearts of your family.
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