Memorial

Richard Lee Russell III, “R.L,” passed away on March 1, 2026, in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. A celebration of life will be held at Cedar Memorial Park Funeral Home on Friday, March 27, 2026, from 4:00-7:00 PM. 

R. L. was born in Jefferson City, MO on April 15, 1938. He graduated from Jefferson City High School, where he played football, ran track, and painted the school’s activity mural; the first of many artistic achievements. He attended Lincoln University in Jefferson City, as well as Westminster College in Fulton, MO. 

Jefferson City is also where R. L. met Bonnie Kinstler. They married in 1959 in Miami, OK, and had four children together: Rick, John, Amy, and Michael. They raised their family together in Sedalia, MO, and spent the majority of their lives there. R. L. worked as an insurance salesman for BMA Insurance for most of his career. 

One of his greatest passions was flying; R. L. flew for over 50 years and loved to take to the skies.  He had a private pilot license, was instrument rated, and carried a commercial license. Those that knew him call him Papa the Pilot. 

R. L. was a sexton at the Calvary Episcopal Church in Sedalia and was an active member of the Episcopal community there. He designed the cross that hangs over the altar at Calvary and the columbarium that opens to the church gardens. He also founded the church’s Art Camp for youth parishioners. He was a camp counselor for Cliff Springs Church Camp in Richland, MO for many years. So focused on camp counselor duties, he lost his wedding band during the camp’s river float on the Gasconade, on two separate occasions!

He was known for his handmade cards among family and friends. For every birthday, holiday, and special occasion, he would personally craft the cards, which showcased his artistic talent. He drew comics that were regularly published in the Sedalia Democrat. He also enjoyed photography and costume making.

R. L. is survived by his wife of 67 years, Bonnie Russell; his four children, Richard Lee Russell IV, “Rick”; Dr. John Russell (Pamela); Amy Russell; and Michael (Dana) Russell; eight grandchildren, Sarah, Alyson, Jack, Matthew, Maddy, Elizabeth, Christopher, and Zachary; as well as fifteen great-grandchildren.