James Russell, age 80, a resident of East Prairie, MO, passed away Thursday, July 16, 2026, at Mercy-Southeast Hospital in Cape Girardeau, MO. He was born May 22, 1946, in Mississippi County, MO, to the late James Carles Russell and Marie Eldridge Russell, and was a farmer for most of his life.

On June 15, 1963, in East Prairie, he married Laura Bell Moore, who preceded him in death April 19, 2010.

James enjoyed hunting and fishing. Most importantly, he was a wonderful father who loved his family.

Survivors include two sons, William Russell (Eva) of LaBelle, FL, and Calvin Russell of Matthews, MO; one daughter, Lorie Cardenas (Jorge) of Lehigh Acres, FL; one brother, Roy Russell (Sherry) of Dogwood, MO; and his grandchildren, Lauren Russell, Camryn Cardenas, Brian Tommie, Daylon Osceola, and Niya Osceola; his sisters-in-law, Agnes Walker, Willie Bea Norman, and Patsy Thomas; as well as a host of cousins and extended family members.

In addition to his parents and wife, James was preceded in death by one daughter-in-law, Paula Russell.

Visitation will be held Monday, July 20, 2026, beginning at 11 a.m. until time of funeral service at 1 p.m. at Caudle-Shelby Funeral Home in East Prairie, with Bro. Stanley Triplett officiating.

Interment will follow in East Prairie Memorial Park Cemetery under the direction of Caudle-Shelby Funeral Home.

A message from his family…

Today, we celebrate the life of my Daddy—a man whose love was shown through his actions every day. He was a hardworking man who never stopped providing for his family, always putting those he loved before himself. His strength, determination, and quiet sacrifices shaped our lives in countless ways. He was a devoted husband, a loving father, and someone we could always count on. He taught us the value of hard work, unconditional love, and showing up for the people who matter most. Although our hearts are heavy with his loss, we are grateful for every moment we shared with him. His love will always be a part of us, and the memories we made together will remain in our hearts forever. Daddy, thank you for everything you gave us. We love you deeply, we will miss you every day, and we will carry you in our hearts always.