Russell Smith Jr.

A life well-lived, Russell Smith, Jr passed away at the age of 91 on Sunday, March 16, 2025 in Evansville, IN. Born on November 22, 1933 in Taylor, MS, Russell was the son of Russell Smith, Sr. and Annie Lois Boone. He was raised alongside his younger brothers, Earl H. Smith, Jessie R. Smith, and Richard A. Smith.

Russell always had a warm smile and a kind word for everyone. He enjoyed sharing fond memories of his childhood with his brothers and other family members. Despite the early loss of both his parents by the age of eight, Russell often spoke with great affection about his parents. He and his three brothers were lovingly raised by their maternal and paternal grandparents.

After serving in the military, Russell traveled to various cities across the United States. While in Cincinnati, OH, he came in contact with Jehovah’s Witnesses and became deeply interested in the Bible's teachings. He found comfort in the hope of living forever on a paradise earth. In 1958, he dedicated his life to Jehovah and was baptized. In 1959, Russell met and married his first wife, Mildred, lovingly embracing and raising Mildred’s daughter Sandra as his own. Making Evansville, IN their home, their marriage, a beautiful testament to their committed partnership that lasted for nearly 50 years until Mildred’s passing in 2009.



Russell's deep love for Jehovah, his unwavering devotion to the truth, and his passion for sharing the good news of God's Kingdom guided him for over 65 years until his death. His faithful presence in the congregation was a source of inspiration and strength to many.

Russell was preceded in death by his parents, Russell & Annie Lois Smith, his brothers Earl, Jessie, and Richard Smith, his first wife Mildred, as well as his nephews Larry Smith, Stanley Smith, Earl Smith, and his niece La Sharon Bankhead.



He is survived by his daughter, Sandra Wilson, and grandson, DeAndre D. Wilson, both of Evansville, IN; his granddaughter, Andrea (Dexter) Knox, and great-grandson, Cameron Knox, of Nashville, TN; his second wife, Mary Smith of Crete, IL; step-daughters, Michele (Derrick) Bruce of Crete, IL, Shannon (Rogge) Wytovak, and step-son, Jeff (Frances) Stewart, all of Evansville, IN; step-granddaughters, Taylor and Brenna Crossley, Chloe and Lanie Wytovak; step-grandsons, Derek and Tyler Stewart; along with nieces, nephews, relatives, and friends.



Though deeply missed, Russell’s legacy of love and faith will forever live in the hearts of all who knew him.