Russell Ellis Thomas, Jr., 32, of Merit, passed away on June 22, 2022 at his residence. A Celebration of Life service will be held on Saturday, July 2, 2022 at 2:00 p.m. at the Merit Baptist Church with Brother Eddie Singleton officiating.
Russell was born December 17, 1989 in Greenville, Texas to Russell Ellis Thomas, Sr. and Marvinia McGuire Thomas. He married Shelby Singleton January 10, 2009 in Merit, Texas. He proudly served his country in the United States Army.
Russell is survived by his wife, Shelby Thomas; parents, Russell and Marvinia Thomas; son, Hunter Thomas; daughter, Kynslee Thomas; brother, Douglas Neal McDougal, II; sisters, Samantha Rainey and Teegan Thomas; grandparents, Joe and Rita Mozingo; nieces, Avery Rainey, Emery Rainey, Landrie Rainey, and Sloan McDougal; as well as countless other family members and friends.
Russell was not only a beloved husband, father, son, brother, grandson, friend, but also a coach. He coached so many of the children in our community in sports. He loved being referred to as “Coach Rusty”.