Alvin Floyd Russell, 77, of DeSoto, MO died at his home early Saturday morning Feb 21, 2026.

Alvin served as a cook in Vietnam during the war in 1970. After retiring from Jefferson County Highway Department and working on the family farm in Ware, MO, he grew to love travel, bar-b-q, and wanted laughter and smiles around him. He was quiet and might not say much at times, but put him with music and friends and he could be the life of the party.

Rarely did he visit a country more than once and he and Nicki made it to 100 countries together. Vietnam was the 101st country for him. He would ask people, “can you imagine this country boy traveling to 101 countries?”

Alvin loved to garden whether flowers or vegetables. He shared sweet potatoes, beets, green beans, and tomatoes with family and friends.

His wood working skills improved greatly over the years. Kitchen items, Christmas decorations, toys, and furniture all reside in the homes of family and friends. He never charged for any of these things he crafted.

Alvin is survived by his wife of 52 years Nickolyn Sue (Shelley) Russell, daughter Karen Sue (Shawn) Dement, son Mark Douglas (Carrie) Russell, special niece Lisa (Mark) Jordan. He is also survived by grandchildren: Madison Keller, Braden (Kaelyn) Dement, Anderson Pipes, Alyssa Dement, Lainie Pipes, and Rebecca Jordan. A great-grandson Paul Dement.
Brother Gary (Grace) Russell, sister Judith (David) Eisenhauer along with numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents Floyd C and Geneva (Billie) Brakefield Russell.

Alvin encourages all to get their timely colonoscopy.

As an expression of sympathy memorial donations may be made to the American Cancer Society or De Soto Christian Church

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