Mr. Wilbur Lee Russell, 65, passed away peacefully on March 2, 2026. He was born on July 28, 1960, to the late James J'Neil Russell and Betty Odoms Russell.

In addition to his parents, Wilbur was preceded in death by his son, Keith Hamilton, and his siblings Velma R. Bailey, Jean R. Bell, Helen R. Kee, and Willie J. Russell.

He leaves to cherish his loving memory his children: Kelly Elleby (William Elleby) of Forest City, NC; Julias Hamilton (Shantell); Nechole Beam of Shelby, NC; Josh Beam of Crouse, NC; and Anita Russell of Forest City, NC. He is also survived by his siblings Lizzie Russell, Mary Mason, Betty Brooks, Linda Russell, and Richard Russell, all of Shelby, NC, and his stepbrother Robert Fuller of Shelby, NC. Wilbur also leaves behind his special friend, Cindy Bostic, along with a host of grandchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends who will forever cherish his memory.

Funeral services were held on Tuesday, March 10, 2026 at Catalyst Fire Church, Shelby, NC.