Bill Russell

William “Bill” Oren Russell departed this life on Sunday, November 30, 2025. Bill was born in Quanah, Texas, on September 23, 1946, and he spent his first 15 years in Burkburnett, Texas. His family moved to Dade County, Missouri in August 1963.

He graduated from Greenfield High School. Bill then attended Hardin Simmons University in Abilene, Texas, for his freshman year, then transferred to Missouri State University. He graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Agriculture in 1969. Bill was drafted into the U.S. Army in March 1969 and served as a cryptographer in Germany. 

Upon his return, he met Teresa Allison in February 1971. They were married the following August 12, 1971.  They were happily married for 54 years.

Bill had many hobbies and always said, “I am looking for something in which I can excel.” Bill retired from Farm Credit Services in 2007 after having many different roles and assignments. Teresa and Bill enjoyed many road trips visiting all 50 states, eight provinces in Canada, and two states in Mexico. They truly enjoyed each other and their many adventures. 

Bill was preceded in death by his parents, Alta Marie (Hickman) Russell and William Quentin Russell; a granddaughter, Chloe Farris; a son-in-law, Daniel Frickenschmidt; and his sister, Mary Helen Wiebe.

He is survived by his spouse, Teresa; his daughters, Sara Russell Frickenschmidt (Todd McKinstry) and Susan Lee Russell (Jase Knox); granddaughters, Phoebe Claire Farris (Dakota Pruiett) and Leora Robin Russell Whitlock; great-granddaughter, Nora Beth Pruiett; great-grandson, Owen William Pruiett; brother-in-law, Steve Allison (Anita Allison); sister-in-law, Marla Gillen; as well as many nieces and nephews.

Private family memorial services will be held at a later date.  

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Pennsboro Cemetery.  

Online condolences may be shared at www.greenfieldfuneralchapel.com.  

Cremation services are under the care of Greenfield Funeral Chapel.