Russell W. Smith

Russell Walter Smith was born December 8, 1966 to the union of James and Thelma Smith. He passed away on March 1, 2025 in Joliet, IL. He was the youngest of 7 children.

Russell accepted Christ at an early age. He was a member of the US National Guard Regiment. Russell attended school within the Lockport School District.

Russell was a loving, caring man who let it be known as well as shown. He carried a spirit of love with him everywhere he traveled. The aura of affection he had really attracted the attention of small children who swarmed around him with smiles, laughter and excitement as he played with them. He loved to grill while listening to mellow music, especially Al Green. His favorite song was “How can you mend a broken heart.” God heard his words, mended his heart along with the rest of his body.  He was released from his pain, received his wings and flew away to go home to be with the LORD. 

“Oh LORD My GOD I cried to you for help, and you heard me” PSALM 30:2

Russell was preceded in death by his parents, James and Thelma Smith; four sisters, Ella (Anthony) Jackson, Elaine Vincent, Carma (Bradley) Johnson and Demetrice (James) Autman; one brother Verlon Smith and a special “little brother” Kyle Creal.

Cherished memories of Russell will be left behind within so many hearts that he touched. He is survived by his sister, Phyllis Smith; his children Dominique, Erin, Jacquelyn, Russell Jr., A’Zyiah and James II; granddaughter, Eliyah Hope Pruitte; a special friend, Kreshena Meade and a host of nieces, nephews, relatives and friends. 

The family of Russell Walter Smith would like to thank everyone for the prayers, thoughts, support and condolences received during the loss of our loved one. 

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