Russell Harris, a pastor, died May 10. He was 83.
At age 17 Russell joined the U.S. Navy in August 1959. He retired on June 15, 1979. During those 20 years he served at many duty stations, including Lakehurst (New Jersey) Naval Air Station, where he met Joann Cook. They married on October 20, 1962, at the Chapel of the Air.
In retirement from the Navy, Russell attended Faith Baptist Bible College and Theological Seminary, graduating with a degree in pastoral studies, Greek, and counseling. He then served as pastor of Norwoodville Baptist Church, Des Moines, Iowa (May 2000–September 2007) and First Baptist Church, Russell, Iowa (February 2008–March 2013).
Russell, who loved Jesus, wanted to make sure everyone he came in contact with went to church and knew the Lord.
Russell was preceded in death by an infant son, William Neal.
He is survived by his wife, Joann; two daughters, Denice Blaine and Loretta “Lori” Taylor; four grandchildren; and seven great-grandchildren.
