Russell, Kelly's Obituary
Kelly Dale Russell, beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, minister, and friend, passed away on May 11, 2026, at the age of 67. Born on July 3, 1958, in Kansas City, Missouri, Kelly was the son of Harold Riddle Russell and Wanda Elizabeth Kelley Russell. Kelly built a life centered on faith, family, and service to others. On June 24, 1978, he married the love of his life, Sheila Adams, in Coffeyville, Kansas, beginning a marriage filled with devotion, partnership, and countless cherished memories. A man of deep faith, Kelly attended Rhema Bible College, graduating in 1993. His calling led him into ministry, where he served as a traveling minister, sharing encouragement, hope, and the love of God with many throughout his life. Kelly was also a dedicated and hardworking professional, spending 35 years employed with Cimarron Machine, where he was respected for his commitment and strong work ethic.
Throughout his life, Kelly called several places home, including Kansas City, MO; Ponca City, Oklahoma; Little Rock, Arkansas; with the majority of his life spent in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Kelly embraced life fully and found joy in many passions. He was a devoted fan of the Arkansas Razorbacks, Kansas City Chiefs, and Kansas City Royals. He enjoyed audiobooks, western movies, off-roading, 4-wheeling, traveling, camping, attending concerts, and making lasting memories with those he loved most. More than anything, Kelly treasured time spent with his family.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Harold and Wanda Russell, and his sister, Karen Duke.
Kelly leaves behind a loving family who will forever cherish his memory: his devoted wife of 47 years, Sheila Russell; his children, Kristina Tantzer and husband Joel, Kari Chee and husband Daniel, Kelly Ryan Russell, and Kenny Russell and wife Brittany; and his treasured grandchildren, Noah Chee, Jadyn Chee, Paisley Russell, Elijah Chee, Tenley Russell, Jefferson Russell, Kora Chee, and Rayna Chee. He is also survived by his brother, Kenny Russell and wife Lisa, along with a host of nieces, nephews, cherished friends, and all whose lives were touched by his kindness, faith, and friendship.
Kelly will be remembered for his steadfast faith, adventurous spirit, generous heart, and unwavering love for his family. His legacy lives on in the many lives he touched through ministry, friendship, and the example he set for those who knew him.
For those wishing to honor Kelly’s memory, donations may be made via PayPal to @bellamarierose78.
The family invites those who knew and loved Kelly to share memories and messages of comfort as they celebrate his life and legacy.
What’s your fondest memory of Kelly?
What’s a lesson you learned from Kelly?
Share a story where Kelly's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Kelly you’ll never forget.
How did Kelly make you smile?