ROBERT ROWLAND RUSSELL

Rowland Russell, 97, of Millville, MO died Friday, January 15, 2016 at Shirkey Nursing & Rehabilitation Center in Richmond, MO

Rowland was born on September 30, 1918 on the family farm near Millville. Rowland was united in marriage to Sarah Frances Windsor of Knoxville, MO on November 24, 1938, to this union four children were born.

Survivors include: two sons, Robert Russell of Liberty, MO, Ronnie Russell and his wife, Robin of Richmond, MO; two daughters, Carolyn Sue Coats of Millville, MO, Rosalyn Ditty and her husband, Jim of Lee's Summit, MO; ten grandchildren, Dr. Sherry Olsen (Roger), Adele Zilliox, Shawn Coats (Nichole), Travis Coats (Erica) , Noel Johnson, Lauren Jones (Seth), Leslie Russell, Lydia Russell, Katie Spiers and Kristie Spiers; Thirteen great-grandchildren ; Codi Beth Butler (Matt) , Ty Coats (Kaylea), Ashley Still, Caitlin Ann Koontz (Dusty), Abigal Zilliox, Hadley Coats, Wren Coats, Elijah Coats, Isaac Coats, Wesley Coats, Ericka Johnson, Anna Rose Schultz and Carter Jones

In addition to his parents and wife Sarah who passed on May 7, 2011, he was preceded in death by three brothers, Wray G. Russell, Alney R. Russell and Tom B. Russell.

Rowland was raised and educated in the area of his birth and graduated from the Millville High School in 1936. Rowland was a farmer and also owned and operated a fertilizer business with his wife since 1951. He farmed his entire life in the area of his birth, and was known for his innovation and early adoption of new farming technology. Always on the cutting edge, from beginning farming with his mules Tom & Pete, to the modern tractors and combines of today. He received many awards for his forethought's and innovation in farming over the years. His memberships include lifelong member of the Millville United Methodist Church, Ray County Health Board for many years, the Farm Bureau and Millville School Board.

The family suggest memorial contributions be made to Millville United Methodist Church.

Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m. Friday, January 22, 2016 at the Millville United Methodist Church.   Visitation will be from 7:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. on Thursday, January 21, 2016 at the Thurman Funeral Home in Richmond. Interment will be in New Hope Cemetery, north of Hardin. Thurman Funeral Home in Richmond is in charge of the arrangements, on line condolences may be left to the family via our web site at www.thurmanfuneralhome.com