Andrew "Andy" Walton Russell

Andrew Walton Russell, known affectionately as Andy to all who knew him, passed away peacefully at home Tuesday morning, July 14, 2026, at the age of 75. Born on January 9, 1951, in Louisville, Andy was a lifelong resident of the Wrens-Matthews area, where he became a beloved member of the community, cherished by friends and family alike.

Andy’s life was marked by a steadfast dedication to his family, his work, and his passions. He attended Wrens High School and it was there that he met the love of his life, Shirley Templeton, marrying on June 30, 1968. Their relationship blossomed into a lifetime of companionship and devotion with their union being one of his life’s greatest blessings. Nothing brought him greater joy than being a husband, a daddy to his girls, and later, a papa to his beloved grandsons.

Through hard work and a sense of duty that never diminished, Andy built a remarkable career. He began at Uniroyal in Thomson, taking pride in a job well done each day. His work ethic and natural leadership eventually led him to AirBalance, later known as Mestek, where he served as plant manager. In this capacity, Andy dedicated over 40 years of service, guiding the plant and its employees with quiet strength and straightforward honesty until its closure. Never one to remain idle, Andy went on to work at F&W Transportation Inc., embodying his well-known desire to always stay busy, until his health began to decline.

Andy embodied an easy-going and happy nature that endeared him to everyone he met. Those close to him remember his unvarnished honesty and his straight-forward approach to life. He was always ready with candid advice and a helping hand. It was said of Andy that “he walked softly, but carried a big stick”—a testament to the quiet authority and gentle strength he displayed throughout his life.

Outside his professional accomplishments, Andy found tremendous enjoyment in the simple pleasures of life. He had a deep love for hunting and fishing, and these activities became treasured pastimes for him. Most of all, Andy cherished the time he spent with his family—especially his grandsons, whom he adored. Family gatherings and shared adventures with his grandchildren filled his days with laughter and purpose.

Andy’s passing is mourned deeply by his devoted wife, Shirley Templeton Russell, his daughters Elisha R. Gaskill and her husband Edward, and Angela R. Willis and her husband Bobby; and his beloved grandsons Ralph Franks IV, Rhett Willis, Landon Willis, and Lawson Willis. He is also survived by his brother Barry Russell (Cathy) and his sister Lee Arrington, as well as other extended family and friends, all of whom will forever cherish the many memories and lessons he shared with them.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Lenora Hobbs Story, and his father, Wilbur Walton Russell, both of whom instilled in him the values and character that guided his every step.

Family and friends are invited to honor Andy’s memory at a funeral service Thursday morning, July 16, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at James Funeral Home with Rev. Scott Rogers officiating. Interment will follow at Wrens Memorial Gardens. Honored to serve as pallbearers include his grandsons—Rhett Willis, Landon Willis and Lawson Willis—as well as Barry Russell, Ronnie Templeton and Keith Boulineau.

The family wishes to extend their heartfelt thanks and appreciation to his caregivers—Tammy Barbour, Tiffany Williams and Ashlee Arrington—who have shown him great kindness, support and loving care.

The family suggests that, in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions be made to the American Cancer Society by clicking on the link.

Andy Russell’s legacy is one of quiet dignity, deep love, and unwavering honesty. His spirit will live on in the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing him, and his memory will continue to guide and inspire his family for generations to come.