James Franklin Russell passed away May 8th, 2025 in Springfield, Missouri. James was born February 12, 1948 to Ralph and Orene Burrell Russell.
Jim graduated from Hillcrest. He entered the army and arrived in Vietnam at the age of 19. He was with Co. D Infantry 196th Americal Division . He landed in Cam Ranh Bay, Vietnam January 2, 1968. One night there was an ambush sweep that lasted all night. Jim was in a foxhole while gunfire shot at them. The next morning April 21, 1968, they were on patrol north of Hue near Camp Evans, 15 miles from the DMZ. His friend stepped on a 105 round booby trap. The impact left Jim with shrapnel from his feet to the top of his head. His left ear was cut off almost entirely but a medic was able to save the ear. He had severe hearing loss. He lost his left eye and wore a prosthetic eye. Jim received the Purple Heart, Vietnam Campaign Medal , Vietnam Service Medal and the National Defense Service Medal. He was put on the Permanent Disability Retired list and discharged November 12, 1968.
Jim married Diane Blondeau June 28, 1969. They celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary in 2019. Jim was devoted to Diane. She was disabled from polio. He loved and cared for her for 55 years. They built their dream home in the middle of five wooded acres just outside Springfield Missouri and they lived there for over 55 years.
Jim adored his children. He faithfully took them to church and activities. His favorite trip with Diane and their children was when they visited the pyramids in Egypt and toured the Holy Land in Israel. He was also dedicated to his grandchildren. He cared for them as if they were his own.
Jim was an independent owner/operator of a trucking business.
Jim and Diane enjoyed the Companion Class at their church, High street Baptist. Jim said he wanted to spend eternity with Diane in heaven.
He is preceded in death by his parents, Ralph Franklin Russell, Orene Burrell Russell, and a brother, Larry Russell. He is survived by his wife ,Diane Sue Blondeau Russell, two children, Michelle Russell and Bradley James Russell, grand children, Austin; Amy; Cody and Brayden, and two sisters, Betty Holden and Pam Fielding.

The visitation will be May 14, Wednesday from 5-7 PM at Greenlawn North. A private ceremony for family will be held at the Missouri Veterans Cemetery in Springfield, Missouri