Johnie William Russell, known to his family as Billy, passed away at his home in Cleveland County, North Carolina on September 18, 2025, at the age of 79. Billy was born in Carteret County, North Carolina on September 9, 1946, and lived there until he enlisted in the United States Air Force in 1964.

Billy served his country from 1964 to 1968. In the Air Force, he went to places he had never been and experienced a very different life than he had in the small town he grew up in. He loved to tell anyone who would listen of the things he saw, the foods he tried for the first time, and his many experiences there.

In 1968 he returned from his service and resumed life in the same small town he grew up in. On February 28, 1969 he was married. Later he moved his family to Florida for his job, but they only stayed there for a short time. Because jobs were plentiful at the time in the Hickory area and his parents were living there, in 1977 Billy moved his family there. In the Newton-Conover area is where his family finally put down roots. He worked for W&L Motor Lines and later Snyder Paper Company until he retired at the age of 70.

Billy is survived by his devoted wife, Kathy, with whom he shared 56 years of marriage. His daughter LuAnn Wheeler and husband Wayne, who will miss him very much. Billy also leaves behind his brothers Keith Russell and wife, Clara, Grant Russell, as well as a sister Carolyn Russell Fagiano and her husband Adam. Also, the wife of Sheldon, Nancy Russell. Billy was preceded in death by his father Calvin and sweet mother, Mary Russell, whom he loved dearly. Also, his brothers Sheldon and Michael Russell, and Michael's wife Kathy Russell.

Billy loved classic cars, horses, and bluegrass music, but most of all, he loved his family. He enjoyed playing the guitar and singing with his family when they could. For his daughter, LuAnn, he would always sing her favorite song, Will the Circle Be Unbroken.

Billy was one of a kind and as we mourn his passing, we will also rejoice in the time we had with him and the countless ways he touched our lives. Rest in peace, Billy; your memory will forever be etched in the hearts of those who loved you.

There will be a "Celebration of Life" service at a later date in his hometown.