Cyril Bruce Russell
Cyril Bruce Russell passed away on June 14, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family. He lived a life defined by hard work, quiet service, steadfast faith, and deep devotion to those he loved.
Bruce was born on July 16, 1942, in Hurricane, Utah, and was the youngest of nine children. He spent his childhood in Mills, Utah, where he developed a strong work ethic and a love for agriculture while helping on the family farm. He often shared stories of growing up without indoor plumbing, riding his beloved horse Sweetie Pie, and embracing the simple joys and responsibilities of rural life. Those early experiences shaped the values of perseverance, humility, and service that guided him throughout his life.
He was the first in his family to serve a mission for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. He served in London, England and loved to tell the story of coming home on the famed QE2 ocean liner.
He married his beloved sweetheart, Karen Christensen, on September 11, 1964, and together they built a loving family while pursuing opportunities that took them across the western United States and even to Samoa, where Bruce taught school and formed lifelong friendships.
He was profoundly affected by the devastating loss of Karen, who passed away from breast cancer at the age of 46. Following her passing, he stepped up to the challenge of the responsibility of raising 7 children with grace and love.
Later in life, he married Dona Elizabeth Brady on September 5, 2004, excited to start another chapter.
Bruce found joy in spending time with family and serving others. He dedicated his career to teaching math, science, and agriculture, inspiring countless students through both the classroom and the Future Farmers of America program. After retiring, he continued to devote his time to the farm and his faith, serving in the Manti Temple and later, alongside Dona, faithfully fulfilling a mission in Des Moines, Iowa, beginning in 2016.
Bruce will be remembered for his strength, unwavering faith, generous heart, and the lasting influence he had on generations of family and friends. His example of kindness, dedication, and quiet discipleship leaves a legacy that will continue to bless those who knew and loved him.
Bruce was preceded in death by his first wife, Karen Christensen; his parents, Ellis and Estella Russell; his siblings Loral, Lucille, Collins, Zona, Dale, Linda, and Annita; and his stepson, John Brady.
He is survived by his wife, Dona Russell; his children: Nola (David) Graham, Chalyece (Randy) Shelley, Shana (Tony) Blackham, Casey (Connie) Russell, Chantel (Michael) Stauffer, Randon (Jessica) Russell, and Niesha (Zack) Peterson; his stepchildren: Donald (Erin) Brady, and Lily, Galen and Katie Brady; his 24 grandchildren; his 16 great-grandchildren; and his sister, Rayola (Lanis) Alligood.
Funeral services will be held on Saturday, June 20, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at the LDS meetinghouse located at 49 South State Street, Mt. Pleasant, Utah. A viewing will be held prior to the service from 9:00 to 10:30 a.m. Interment will take place following the service at the Mt. Pleasant Cemetery.
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