Thomas J. Russell

Thomas J. Russell, 94, of Coal Center, passed peacefully Tuesday, March 10, 2009. He was born May 2, 1914 in Coal Center, a son of the late Anthony and Naomi Furlong Russell. As a young man, Thomas played the violin with the Cream City Ramblers at dances and on radio Station WMBO. He was employed by Wheeling-Pittsburgh Steel, Allenport Plant for 42 years and was a volunteer for the Salvation Army in California, Pa. He was a member of the Coal Center United Methodist Church prior to its closing and then became a member of the Grace United Methodist Church of Coal Center where he served on the Board of Trustees. Thomas was a 35 year member of the Longbranch Community Grange, serving 14 of those years as Master. He was largely responsible for the existing building having spent much time and labor as it was built. He was also a member of the PA State and National Granges and was appointed State Deputy for Washington Pomona Grange. Thomas created the Thomas J. Russell and Christine J. Russell Scholarship, a perpetual scholarship for 4 H members in Washington County. He is survived by four children: Naomi Rymer (Robert) of Greensburg, Thomas L. Russell of Speers, Robert Russell (Gloria) of Jupiter, FL. And Joan Steiner (Clark) of Acme, seven grandchildren: Joy Shutterly (Jon) of Belle Vernon, Dr. J. Russell Linderman of San Diego, CA., Jennifer Pigeon (Andrew) of Lake Park, FL., Laura Farrington (Adam) of Palmyra, N.J., Christopher Russell (Keisha) of Speers, Aaron and Mark Steiner both of Acme, seven Great-grandchildren, two sisters: Helen Sedlak of Elco and Mildred Macosta of Charleroi. In addition to his parents he was preceded in death by his wife of 59 years, Christine J. Russell (April 30, 1997), sisters: Margaret Watkins, Etta Timlin, and Sophia Wolpink. Friends will be received from 2-4 and 6-8 Thursday, March 12 in the Melenyzer-DuBarr Funeral Homes and Cremation Service, Inc. of Roscoe and from 9 - 10 am in the Grace United Methodist Church followed by a funeral Service at 10:00 a.m. with Rev. Gary Gregg and Pastor Randy Landman officiating. Interment in Howe Cemetery, Coal Center. The family would like to recognize Amber House, Mt. Pleasant, Pa., and Excela Hospice for the exceptional care given to Thomas. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations be given to the Salvation Army, California, Pa., or Excela Hospice. On-line condolences will be accepted @ www.Melenyzer-DuBarr.com