Ray Russell

ROY — Ray Joseph Russell passed away Thursday, August 4, 2011 at home surrounded by his family. Ray was born May 21, 1923, in South Weber, Utah, the son of Joseph Richard and Annie Elizabeth Ray Russell. Ray lived most of his life in Roy, and graduated from Weber High School. He joined the U.S. Army Air Corp during WWII, and was a B-17 Bomber pilot. Ray married Thelma N. Pearson June 18, 1946 in the Salt Lake Temple; they have been married for 65 years. He was a Logistics Specialist for the Missile Defense program at HAFB and Norton Air Force Base, and retired after 37 years of Civil Service. He loved to travel with his sweetheart, Thelma. He enjoyed all sports, and especially enjoyed playing baseball and softball. He was a faithful member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latterday Saints, and had a strong testimony of the gospel. He served in many positions throughout his life, including Stake Missionary, High Councilman, and Bishop. He considered being a husband, father and grandfather as his greatest calling in life. He cherished the time spent with his family. Ray is survived by his loving wife, Thelma; children: Richard Ray (Shirley) Russell, Kathleen (Rex) Bachman, Perry (Joleen) Russell, Suzanne (Shane) Openshaw; a sister, Verna Bambrough; 17 grandchildren and 22 great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents; sister, Joanne Kimber and brother, Dee Russell. Funeral services will be held Tuesday, August 9, 2011 at 11:00 a.m. at the Roy First Ward Chapel, 5850 S. 2575 W., Roy, Utah. Family will greet friends on Monday, from 6-8 p.m. at Myers Roy Mortuary, 5865 S. 1900 W., Roy, Utah, and