Danny Ray "Bear" Russell

Danny Ray “Bear” Russell, age 67 of Speedwell, TN passed away Monday, September 18, 2023. He was born February 25, 1956 in Middlesboro, KY to the late Arthur and Naomi (Smith) Russell. Danny spent many years working in the log woods around the tri-state area. He loved being outdoors and spending his free time fishing and camping. His family recalls how often he spoke of the love he had for his mom and dad as well as his daughter, his grandfather and grandmother and their home place.  Danny was saved at an early age during Vacation Bible School. He will be missed by his friends at Hardee’s and the 10-3 crowd. Danny will be remembered as a funny, kind, mischievous friend and neighbor.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his daughter, Melissa Dawn West, sister, Nancy West Carlton, brothers-in-law, Lee Roy West, Bill Pierce and Jerry Ausmus.

Left to cherish his memory are his daughter, Jessica West Horner and Steve, grandchildren, Kaitlyn West and Isaiah Daniels, brother, Randy (Cookie) Russell, sister, Charlotte (Graylon) Wilson, Robin Ausmus, brother-in-law, Donnie Carlton, nieces and nephews, LeeAnn (Darrell) Walker, Nichole (Brian)Goins, Candace Russell, Josh (Donna) Russell, Tonya (Robbie) Davis, Tarra Wilson, Amanda (David) Taylor, Cara Beth (Jason) Couch, aunt, Eula Gray Jones, as well as many great nieces, great nephews, special friends Denver Reeves, Sue Hoskins and lifelong friend Wayne McCulley. He is also survived by many other loving relatives and friends.

The family will receive friends Thursday, September 21, 2023 from 5PM until 7PM with funeral services to follow at 7PM in the Arnett & Steele Valley Chapel with Rev. Tommy Russell officiating. The obituary will be read by Cara Beth Couch and music will be provided by David Painter.

Graveside services will be conducted 11AM Friday in the Hooper Cemetery.

Pallbearers: Isaiah Daniels, Eric Daniels, Josh Russell, Jason Couch, David Taylor, Andy Welch, Jaxon Taylor and Knox Couch

Honorary Pallbearers: Wayne McCulley, Denver Reeves and Graylon Wilson

The Arnett & Steele Valley Chapel is honored to be serving the Russell Family.