Leo J "Jay" Russell

Leo J “Jay” Russell passed away on Saturday, March 6, 2021 at his home in Natoma, KS, at the age of 85. He was born on December 24, 1935 to James and Ruth (Selbe) Russell in Ellis, KS. He was united to Vesta (Hrabe) Shannon on November 10, 1968. The couple was blessed with a son, Chris. Leo grew up in Rooks County and graduated from Plainville High School in 1953. Following High School Jay served in the United States Air Force/SAC flying the DEW (Defense Early Warning) line where he was exposed to nuclear energy flying with atomic bombs. This resulted in acute Myeloid Leukemia that caused his death. After his honorable discharge he attended Fort Hays State University and then went on to teach at Plainville Public Schools until his retirement. He loved teaching, flying, gardening, music, and of course his family. Left to cherish his memories is his wife Vesta Russell of the home; son, Chris (Jennifer) Russell of Cheyenne, WY; and brothers, Jesse (Mary) Russell, Dennis (Judy) Russell, Robert (Linda) Russell, Wayne (Jean) Russell, Don (Linda) Russell, Charles (Delene) Russell, and Kevin (Theresa) Russell. He is preceded in death by his parents James and Ruth Russell; brothers, James, Jerry, Joseph, and Leslie Russell; and two sisters, Louise and Maurita. Jay’s request was to not have any services. Memorials are suggested to the Hospice of Phillipsburg and CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocate) and may be sent in care of Plumer-Overlease Funeral Home, 320 SW 2nd St., Plainville, KS 67663. A special thanks to Dr. Coe (formerly of Hays) and Dr. Accurso of Hays, and the staff at Rooks County Medical Center – Ron Williams, Lisa, Sandy & Joy.