Richard Russell, Sr

Richard “Wayne” Russell Sr. 82, of Kannapolis passed away Tuesday, January 31, 2023 at the Tucker Hospice House surrounded by loved ones.

He was born August 14th, 1940 to the late Lewis and Helen Russell of Kannapolis, NC. In Wayne’s early adult years, he attended UNC Chapel Hill and went on to join the US Air Force. Once his time was served he returned back to Kannapolis to raise his family, work as a fixer in Cannon Mills and lay brick along side his youngest son, Rick. In the 90’s he and his wife started their own craft business where he made ceramics and custom frames to sell at vendor shows across the Carolinas. They most notably attended the Southern Christmas Show for over 10 years.

He defied the odds stacked against him when he suffered a massive stroke 25 years ago. He pushed on and continued to work to do as much as he could an ultimately lived a fulfilling life.
Throughout the years Wayne enjoyed calf roping, fishing, attending races, camping, trips to the mountains and beach, as well as spending time with his family.

Wayne was preceded in death by his wife Sally Russell, daughter Dena Earnhardt and son in-law Charles Atwell. As well as Nitto, the dog he loved to hate.

Those left to cherish his memory include his sons Richard “Rick” (Selena) Russell Jr., Jackie Horton and Bobby (Becky) Horton. Daughter, Debbie Atwell. Grandchildren Erica (Jeremy) Earnhardt-Wilson, Corey (McKenzie) Atwell, Justin (Jayde) Russell and Kristan (Caleb) Cajiuat. Great-Grandchildren Lexia, Sybella, Emerick & Denim.

His family will receive friends 5-7PM Friday, February 3rd, 2023 at Whitley’s Funeral Home.

Memorials may be made to Hospice and Palliative Care of Cabarrus County, 5003 Hospice Lane, Kannapolis NC 28081

Online condolences may be made to www.whitleysfuneralhome.com