John H Russell, age 78, passed away peacefully at home in Ruidoso, New Mexico, on September 21, 2026.
Born on February 1, 1948, in Raton, New Mexico, John H Russell served honorably in the United States Coast Guard from 1966 to 1970. After his military service, he remained an active presence in the Ruidoso community, giving his time to organizations including the Homebuilders Association and the Veterans of New Mexico.
John was known throughout town as a familiar and friendly face. He was a regular at Club Gas, where he spent many happy hours visiting with local friends, discussing history, exchanging stories, and sharing opinions on a wide range of topics. He was remarkably intelligent and found great enjoyment in conversation and the lively exchange of ideas.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Oliver Marion Russell and Alma Margaline Owen, and by his brothers, Owen M. Russell and R. Randy Russell.
John is survived by his wife, Durene (Hein) Russell; his children, Mark Russell and JoLynn Russell, both of Ruidoso, Eric Russell of Jacksonville, Florida, and Jeff Russell of Alamogordo, New Mexico; and his grandsons, Deric, Tyler, and Hayden. He is also survived by a niece and grandnephew of Ruidoso, a nephew of Huntsville, Alabama, a grandnephew of Folsom, New Mexico, and a nephew of Whitefish, Montana.
A committal ceremony with military honors will be held on Friday, October 23, 2026, at Fort Stanton State Veterans Cemetery, 1398 Hwy 220, Fort Stanton, New Mexico. A Celebration of Life will follow at 2:00 PM on Sunday, October 25, 2026, at Calvary Chapel Ruidoso, 707 Mechem Dr, Ruidoso, New Mexico.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in John's honor to US Veterans of New Mexico, PO Box 356, Alto, NM 88312. He will be remembered by those who knew him for his conversation, his wit, and his lasting presence in the community.
