John Thomas "Tom" Russell

McMinnville, TN resident and DeKalb County, TN native John Thomas "Tom" Russell, age 84, was born September 27, 1932 and died May 16, 2017 at his residence following an extended illness. He was retired from Ben Lomand Telephone Company, a farmer, affiliated with the Baptist Faith, and the son of the late Taylor and Ella West Russell. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by first wife, Linnie Belle Smith Russell (1950-2004), brother, Eugene Russell; and two sisters, Louvella Jones and Anna Ruth Barnes. He was married on December 12, 2009 to Audrey Knowles Russell of McMinnville. In addition to his wife, he is survived by three children and their spouses, Cynthia and Rayburn Pedigo, Melissa and Joey Livesay, and Tony and Angie Russell all of McMinnville; six grandchildren and their spouses, Russell and Teresa Pedigo, Josh and Rachel Livesay, Brad and Sandy Pedigo, Brandi and John Dunlap, Heather and Ethan Massa, and Kristin and DeMorro Grayson; twelve great-grandchildren; three step-sons and spouses, Levoy and Teresa Knowles of McMinnville, Terry and Pam Knowles of Murfreesboro, TN and Chuck Knowles of Clarksville, TN; four step-grandchildren and three step-great-grandchildren; special caregivers, Sandra Brown, Donna Harrell, Christy Smartt and Lisa Womack; and several nieces and nephews also survive. Funeral service will be held at 3:00 p.m. Thursday, May 18, 2017 in High's Chapel with Gary McBride and Darrell Cantrell officiating. Burial will follow in Charles Creek Cemetery. Visitation will be Wednesday from 3:00 p.m. until 9:00 p.m. and from 10:00 a.m. until the time of service Thursday at High's. Ben Lomand retirees and employees are asked to serve as Honorary Pall Bearers. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Meals on Wheels or Avalon Hospice. Online condolences may be made at www.highfuneralhome.com High Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.