PHOENIX, Ariz. – We celebrate the life and heritage of Gerald "Jerry" M. Russell, born April 24, 1928, in Arcola, departed July 5, 2012, in Phoenix, Ariz.

Jerry married Betty Jean Freeman on July 29, 1950, in Douglas County, Ill.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Beatrice M. Russell (Ellis), and father, Theodore Russell; and one brother, Theodore Ellis Russell.

We who continue to enjoy his love and memories are: His wife of 61 years, Betty; brother, John W. Russell; five children, Susan G. Thomas, Beverly A. Russell, Jerry A. Russell and Pamela J. Paschal, all of Phoenix, Ariz., and John P. Russell of Minot, N.D.

Jerry's extended family are 14 grandchildren; 29 great-grandchildren and one more on the way; nieces and nephews and a myriad of friends and relatives in both Arizona and Illinois.

Jerry's humor and enjoyment of people is the heritage he leaves all those who love him.

Celebration memorial will be held at 1 p.m. July 21, 2012, at Palmcroft Baptist Church, 15825 N. 35th Ave. J Building, Phoenix AZ 85053.

Condolences may be sent to 38614 N. Central Ave., Phoenix AZ 85086.

In place of other expressions of sympathy, family requests donations to: Christian Family Care (Pregnancy-adoption and foster care) CFcare.org or Parkinson Foundation: www.parkinson.org.