Russell O. Lear, age 71

Russell O. Lear, age 71, of Gallipolis, died Sunday morning August 9, 2015 at Holzer Medical Center. Born August 16, 1943 in Mercerville, Ohio. He was the son of the late Virgil and Pearl Wells Lear. In addition to his parents, Russell was preceded by four brothers, Virgil Lear, Jr., Otis Lear, Richard Lear and Wilbur William Lear, and by 1 sister, Maxine Lamadale Wallace.

Russell retired as a loader from the Pepsi Bottling Co. He was a member of the Debbie Drive Chapel. He enjoyed spending time with his family and playing gospel bluegrass music at the Vinton Fast Stop.

He is survived by one daughter, Angela Marie Lear Tracy of Bidwell, two sons, Danny (Tammy) Lear of Gallipolis, and Rusty (Rachel) Lear of Laurelville. Twelve grandchildren, Dakotah Matthew Pollock, Erica Marie Tracy, Nathan Patrick Tracy, Devin Ray Lear, Austin Darst, Ryanna Darst, Dalton Lear, Aydan Lear, Jordan Lear, Ian Lear, Sidney Lear, and Landry Lear. Two great grandchildren, Memphis Kash Thomas and Kamdyn Russell Thomas. Also surviving are two special friends, Vonda Farley and Joyce Jewell.

Funeral services will be 1:00 PM. Thursday August 13, 2015 at the Waugh-Halley-Wood Funeral Home. Burial will follow in Old Mercerville Cemetery. Friends may call at the funeral home on Wednesday from 6-9 PM.

An online guest registry will be available at waugh-halley-wood.com