Russell Sowards

July 31, 1950–March 31, 2016

I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith – 2 Timothy 4:7

Russell Dale Sowards, 65, of Willow Wood, finished his course and left this earthly realm entering Heaven’s gates on Thursday, March 31, 2016. He was surrounded by his family who had the honor and privilege of reading scripture and singing hymns to him as he joined the Heavenly Choir. The funeral service will be conducted by his pastor Darrell Fowler and assisted by his young friend Brother Jeremy Simpson at 1 p.m. Monday at Hall Funeral Home and Crematory, Proctorville. Burial will follow in Locust Grove Cemetery, Willow Wood.

He was greeted in heaven by his Mommy Emogene and Daddy Russell “Barney” Sowards. Russell Dale was born July 31, 1950. He is survived by his loving wife of 46 years, Marilyn, and daughters, Angela Lynn (Charles) Baldwin of Willow Wood and Erin Dale (Keith) Hannah of Rutland; In addition, he is also survived by his grandchildren whom he adored, Lindsay Nichole Baldwin, Brittany Lynn “Groundhog Baby” Baldwin, Colton “Colt” Hannah, Charles Russell “Bert” Baldwin, Shayla Shyann Hannah, Kylie Paige “Squirt” Hannah, his baby Payzlie Lynn “Catbird” Hannah and his special buddy Gizmo. Russell also leaves behind his five younger siblings, Bobby Sowards, Linda Smith, Terry Hyder, Jerry Sowards and Vonda Sargent, as well as a host of nieces, nephews and cousins. Being a “Jack of all Trades”, Russell had several careers but especially enjoyed his years spent in carpentry, working for SEOEMS, and the U.S.Postal Service.

The majority of his life, however, was spent serving the Lord. During the last 46 years, he has served as deacon at New Zion Church and held too many other positions to name. Russell was a faithful Prayer Warrior and disciple. Often sick himself, Russ spent countless hours visiting the sick and witnessing to the lost in the community. He was a wonderful teacher, counselor, friend, and brother – a true “man of God” who never met a stranger. He had an avid interest in anything outdoors. He dedicated a large portion of his life to his love of hunting. He was a proud member of the National Rifle Association and National Wild Turkey Federation where he participated in Wheeling Sportsman events and volunteered his time assisting with JAKES’ events. Russ was devoted to his church, community, and friends; but especially his family. He was the best husband, Dad, father-in-law, Papaw and brother that there could ever be. He loved his family more than anything in this world and did everything in his power to make sure everyone was happy, healthy, and had everything they needed.

He left behind a legacy like no other and assured us he will be waiting for us in Heaven. Friends may call from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Monday at Hall Funeral Home and Crematory in Proctorville followed by the funeral service at 1 p.m. Burial will follow in Locust Grove Cemetery. Condolences may be expressed to the family at www.timeformemory.com/hall.

 

 

Frieda Stephens

Frieda Darlene Stephens, 87, of Chesapeake, died Friday April 1, 2016, at Rivers Bend Health Care, South Point. Funeral service will be conducted 2 p.m. today at Hall Funeral Home and Crematory, Proctorville, Ohio by pastor Mitchell Webb. Burial will follow in Rome Cemetery, Proctorville. Visitation will be from 1 to 2 p.m. today at the funeral home. Condolences may be expressed to the family at www.timeformemory.com/hall.