Russell Edgar Knell died peacefully with his family around him at Maury Regional Medical Center on Sunday, September 3, 2017 in Columbia, TN at the age of 63.
Russell is survived by his wife Carol; son Brandon (Siebe) of Nashville, step-son Alex Powers of Mt. Pleasant, and step-daughter Savannah (Trent) Chapman of Summertown. He is also survived by his sister Martha Brown, his nieces Ashlea (Bryan) Van Vranken, and Bethann (Matt) Davis. He is preceded in death by his parents Phillip and Betty Knell and his brother Phillip D. Knell.
Russell was born on June 21, 1954 in Nashville, TN to Phillip and Betty Knell. He graduated from Central High School in Nashville. He met his beloved Carol and were married in 1999. Russell loved and helped raise Savannah and Alex as his own children. He was his son, christian artist Brandon Heath’s, biggest fan. All who knew Russell loved him for his wit and childlike heart.
Russell spent the majority of his life faithfully serving others. He served his country in the United States Air Force for three years, his state and community through the Tennessee Public Service Commission, and retired with the Tennessee State Highway Patrol. Russell volunteered on the boards of the Columbia Jaycees, The March of Dimes Radio Auction, and the Maury County Fair. By far, one of his favorite volunteer roles was being the DJ for the King’s Daughter’s School dance every Christmas.
A funeral is scheduled for Thursday, September 7, 2017 at 1PM at Heritage Funeral Home. Mr. Randy Barlow will officiate the ceremony. Military honors will be provided by the Herbert Griffin American Legion Post 19. A visitation will be held on Wednesday, September 6, 2017 from 6-8PM at the funeral home. All are welcome to attend and celebrate Russell’s life. Heritage Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.
Pallbearers will be: Ricky Warren, Ron Ash, Trent Chapman, Donnie Morrow, Tim Napier, Stevie Shockley, and Kevin Thompson. Honorary pallbearers will include: Randy Barlow and the past and present employees of the Tennessee Highway Patrol.
Please send any donations to The King’s Daughter’s School at info@tkds.org. The family would like to wholeheartedly thank Micey Foster and Annie Bradley for their faithful and loving care of Russell, and becoming a true part of our family.
