Willard Russell

Willard Russell, 73, of Brookland, died Sunday, November 6, 2022, at NEA Baptist Hospital.  He had lived in Brookland for the last 16 years, moving here from Bay.  He was born in Jonesboro on November 15, 1948, to Brodie and Etta Jane Russell. He was a 1967 graduate from Bay High School.  He was of the Baptist belief.  Having worked in the auto parts industry for many years, he developed a love for racing cars on the dirt track. Willard served his country, serving in the US Army during the Vietnam War.  He loved spending time with his family and friends, watching baseball, and attending auctions.  He was preceded in death by his parents and seven brothers.

Survivors include his daughter, Dacia Lea Sperou and her husband, George “Bo” of Brookland; brothers, Bobby Russell of Jonesboro; Dale Russell of Ravenden Springs; sisters, Betty Gibson, Chris Grimes, and Brenda Fletcher all of Jonesboro; granddaughter, Shelbie Lea Sperou and great grandchildren, Jayden Sperou and Cooper Sperou.

A celebration of life ceremony will be 10:00 Thursday, November 10, 2022, at Emerson Memorial Chapel with Danny Russell officiating and Emerson Funeral Home in charge of arrangements.  Burial will follow at Pine Hill Cemetery with Steve Ragin, Todd Pierce, Patrick Hoke, George “Bo” Sperou, Brian Fletcher, and Greg Fletcher.  Visitation will be from 9:00 until service time.  To sign an online guestbook, go to emersonfuneralhome.com.