Russ Harvell, 65, of College Station, was welcomed into Heaven on Wednesday morning, July 31, 2013. Many names are synonymous with this wonderful man: Husband, Dad, Grandy, Uncle Foots, Uncle Crust, Brother, Friend, Soldier and Proud 6th Generation Texan.
Russ was born on September 23, 1947 to Ernest “Dutch” and Marilyn Harvell in Houston, Texas. He attended A&M Consolidated High School, graduating in 1965. Shortly after high school, he joined the Army and honorably served his country as a radio-telephone operator in a long range reconnaissance patrol unit (LLRP) in Southern Vietnam. Upon returning home, Russ received his Bachelor’s degree in Ag Business and Master’s degree in Ag Education from Sam Houston State University. He spent more than 30 years working with the United States Department of Agriculture in various positions around the US, ultimately settling in Little Rock, Arkansas. There he was a member of the VFW, where he was chosen to serve as Post Commander.
Russ’s smile was infectious and his laughter contagious. Never one to turn from a challenge – he faced down bulls as a rodeo clown, tracked enemy forces through the jungle while defending our country and mustered a giggle from his grandkids every time he saw them. His pride in his country and beloved state of Texas was surpassed only by his love for his family. Countless memories will be cherished by his children, grandchildren, nieces and nephews – each blessed to have a unique and special connection with him.
Perhaps his life’s greatest joy was his wife, Linda. Once high school sweethearts, they were reunited 41 years later and shared a love that was truly enviable. Both best friends and business partners- they were the perfect definition of happiness.
Russ also found tremendous strength and peace in his faith in Jesus Christ. He was a member of the Brotherhood Men’s Group and served on the Hospitality Ministry Team at Covenant Family Church.
He is preceded in death by his parents “Dutch” and Marilyn Harvell and his sister Cyndi Crain.
Left to treasure his memory are his wife, Linda Bloom Harvell, daughters Cecilee Herd and husband Larry, Stacey Pellett and husband Mike, Jenny Morris and husband Jared, Darcie Harvell and son Kyle Harvell. He will also be greatly missed by his brothers David Harvell and wife Carolyn, Tobin Harvell, Ernie Harvell and wife Gina, his sisters Linda White and husband Bill, Annetta Carrington, Lennie Diaz-Granados and husband Jim; his grandchildren McKenlee, Kaylee, Will, Carter, Callee, Brinlee, Leilani and Lydia, and numerous nieces and nephews.
Visitation will be held on Saturday, August 3, 2013 from 4:00-6:00 pm at the Callaway-Jones Funeral Home and Crematory. Celebration of life services will be at 4:00 pm Sunday, August 4, 2013 at Covenant Family Church in College Station. Funeral arrangements are in the care of Callaway-Jones Funeral Home and Crematory.
The family requests that in lieu of flowers, memorial gifts be given to Covenant Family Church Building Fund, 4010 Harvey Road, College Station, TX 77845.
We could always be in the wrong place at the right time, couldn’t we, Brother? Thank you for always being there for me, Russ. You could make me laugh when I felt that there was not that much to laugh about. Guard the Streets of Heaven; I’ll be there soon and we’ll stand the watch together. Love you, bro. Semper Fidelis — Chuck
I am so sorry to hear of Russ’ passing. Russ was a good guy. I worked with Russ back in the early 80’s in Temple, TX at SCS. Then again with RD. I will remember Russ and his big smile and his laugh. I know he was happy to get back to Texas. My deepest sympathy to the Harvell family. I will be praying for all of you.
I extend my deepest sympathies to Russ’ family. I worked with Russ while he was at Rural Development and have many fond memories of his laughter and positive attitude. My prayers and thoughts are with you all.
My thoughts and prayers are with Russ’ family during this time of loss. Russ was a friend and kind person. I have lots of memories of Russ during training meetings in the 1990’s. He will be missed.
Linda, Darcie, and Kyle:
I was truly sadden to learn that Russ had past away. We worked together for almost 20 years. During that time I learned a lot from him and have a lot of memories of talking about our families and I considered him a friend.
He was so excited to retire and move back to Texas and so happy to be with you Linda.
My prayers for comfort and peace to the 3 of you and Russ’ brothers and sisters.
Sherry Johnson
I knew Russ for nearly 20 years. I considered him a good friend and fellow Vietnam Veteran. He enabled me to retire early and I was truly grateful for that. My prayers are with you all during this time. RIP my brother.
My sincere condolences to Russ’s entire family. I will never forget Russ bringing Kyle to a couple of our many room parties at AO/HRM Meetings. Russ was a loveable and warm friend and I will miss him. Bill Butler, former APD, Wyoming
Russ, I miss you already so much. Linda, I will always remember you in my prayers. It’s so hard to believe you’re gone…but rest in peace knowing you’ll never be forgotten. Thank you for always sharing your smile to everyone. I am a better person for knowing you. I know I’ll see you again…until that day I will think of you often. Love, Cynthia
Linda, I’m so sorry and words fail me as to what to say to lessen your burden. I know that time and prayer, family and friends, are the only thing possible to help you through this time. Please know that I am here for you. If there is ANYTHING I can do please don’t hesitate to call me. I’m sending hugs and love your way. Sheila
I am so saddened to learn about Russ. His family has my deepest and heartfelt sympathy. Russ and I worked together in Arkansas for several years. He was one of the best employees I have known. He was my friend. We always got together whenever we could. We always had fun and he could tell the funniest stories ever. RIP in peace with God my friend.
For Russ’s Family:
I was Russ’s Battalion Commander in Vietnam. Russ was a member of Company C, 3rd Battalion, 1st Infantry. Being a infantryman in combat is the toughest job and Russ met this challenge in a superb manner. I remember him as a fine man who had great concern for this fellow soldiers. Russ was truly a great American.
Jim Franklin
My heart goes out to your family Russ. Although we were often on opposite sides of the table at RD Partnership Meetings you were one of the best management officials I worked with. Open mind, open heart and not afraid to step out of the box. Arkansas lost a great man when you moved to Texas but we were so happy for you that you were going to finally move home. Our friendship developed through work and I still consider you a wonderful man and individual and so grateful that I got to work and learn from you, Rest in Peace dear friend.
My heart goes out to your family Russ. Although we were often on opposite sides of the table at RD Partnership Meetings you were one of the best management officials I worked with. Open mind, open heart and not afraid to step out of the box. Arkansas lost a great man when you moved to Texas but we were so happy for you that you were going to finally move home. Our friendship developed through work and I still consider you a wonderful man and individual and so grateful that I got to work and learn from you, Rest in Peace dear friend.
To the family of Russ Harvell you have my deepest sympathy. Even though I worked in DC I visted Arkansas numerous times and Russ always made me feel welcome. We worked together on numerous occasions. I will miss him and continue to keep the family in my prayers.
Linda, Darcie & Kyle, My deepest sympathy to each of you in the passing of Russ. I worked with him in RD and he was a great person. He always kept us laughing and entertained and made our conferences much more enjoyable. You are in my thoughts and prayers. May God give you his peace and comfort in this difficult time.
Linda and family, I am so sorry to hear of your precious loss! Praying for you at this most difficult time!
May God comfort you in your time of need. Linda and family, hold fast to one another at this time and look forward to the day you will see Russ again in heaven. God Bless you All.
I had the pleasure to work closely with Russ at FmHA/RD. He could always be counted on to give good advice and would do whatever it took to resolve work related issues. He was considerate of other opinions and fair. It was an honor to work with Russ. My deepest sympathy to his family.
All my prayers and sympathy go out to you, Linda, and to all the family. God Bless you all.
Condolences and PRAYERS~~~~ <3 <3 <3
Our deepest condolences on your loss. Please do not hesitate to ask if there is anything we can do.
Russ Harvell was one of the greatest Americans I ever knew. I served with him at USDA in Arkansas and saw first hand his keen wit and great work ethic, two traits that don’t always go hand in hand. But the biggest service Russ ever did for me was to be my friend as I prepared to go to Iraq with the 39th Infantry Brigade of the Arkansas Army National Guard in 2004. Russ was a soldier and his advice and caring helped me more than anyone can ever know. Russ is the kind of guy that just hearing his name can make me smile. God Bless Russ and may peace be with his wonderful family.
My deepest sympathy to all of the family. Keeping all of you and your departed loved one in prayer.
No eye has seen, no ear has heard and no mind has imagined what GOD has prepared for those who love him. I Corinthians 2:9 Goodbye sweet cousin thanks for the memories. I’ll see you again !!