Search by Name

Search by Name

Russell Smith Obituary

Russell "Rusty" Smith 10/18/1973 - 1/10/2004 Rusty, it has been ten years since you left to a better place. Your Mom, Nicki and I think of you every day. We miss your contagious laugh, wit, and sense of humor. Your bravery throughout your life fighting Cystic Fibrosis was far beyond all of us. You are now finally "Breathing Easy" and enjoying a beautiful life beyond what we can comprehend.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Arizona Daily Star on Jan. 10, 2014.

Memories and Condolences
for Russell Smith

Not sure what to say?





Jennifer Dalbeck

November 6, 2014

Rusty was so special I didnt get to hang out with him long but we shared dreams of movie making..I met him not long after he came out of surgery for his first double lung transplant..he had just bought a black toyota pickup that he was so proud of...we talked alot of film making and drove all over sedona and surrounding areas..luv ya Rusty you were a great inspiration and like a brother..so easy to talk to miss you...

August 12, 2014

I remember Rusty when he was a patient at St. Luke's Clinic @ UMC. I worked the front desk and would check him in. He was the cutest thing- always acting like a tough guy, but when we flirted with him, he would turn bright red!! I will always remember his mother, and how well she took care of him. I will never forget Rusty and I am a better person to have known him. Blessings to his family. Elizabeth

Mike Friel

January 14, 2014

It was a privilege meeting Rusty at UMC many years ago. His tough-as-nails swagger made him stand out from the crowd. I remember seeing Rusty leave UMC in a limo after his xplant ~ all grins! His sense of humor was rippin'! Great guy!
God Bless!

Joline Albaugh

January 12, 2014

Robert, I have followed Rusty's story over the years through the newspaper. I read when he received his new lungs and then later when he had passed away. Then today, I read his "in Memoriam" in the paper. How wonderful that he had such supportive parents and that the CF community had such dedicated volunteers. Please accept my condolences for your family's loss.

Joline from the B-B Systems Group.

Cindy Reutzel

January 11, 2014

Rusty was a wonderful brave young man, his struggles thru every day life is such an inspiration. I think of his strength when me daily life feels so difficult. Thank you Rusty!

Marcia Nuese

January 10, 2014

Our family has known Rusty ever since he was born because we are related. I still remember his contagious smile and fun humor. Love this little Redhead Always. God has a special place for you and you will welcome us all some day and we will know you.. Love ya!

January 10, 2014

Rusty was a joy, considering what he had to bear. We roared thru the mountains one time with bob long ago.
Phil Smith. Claremore, Okla...

January 10, 2014

We didn't get to meet your son but know that he had the best parents for his short time here on earth.

Ross and Pattie

Jan Eddy

January 10, 2014

Rusty lit up the world. He was filled with Love, joy and laughter. He made our lives better by just being Rusty! You are loved and missed my friend.

Laurie Mertens

January 10, 2014

I had the privilege of getting to know Rusty through Make-A-Wish and when I saw his picture, I just had to smile! He had that effect on people. Very special indeed!

A Great Pack Trip

January 10, 2014

To Rusty who was and remains a daily inspiration to our lives. In our eyes he stands tallest among the ranks of big men with more courage than any of us can imagine.
Bobbie and George Hoyle

Showing 1 - 11 of 11 results

Make a Donation
in Russell Smith's name

Memorial Events
for Russell Smith

To offer your sympathy during this difficult time, you can now have memorial trees planted in a National Forest in memory of your loved one.

How to support Russell's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.

The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.

Read more
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

Read more
The Five Stages of Grief

They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.

Read more
Ways to honor Russell Smith's life and legacy
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

Read more