Russell Carl Eldridge Sr.

Russell Carl Eldridge Sr. (90) passed away peacefully holding his granddaughters’ hands, on November 29, 2025, a day that holds deep meaning with his family. Thirteen years earlier to the date, his beloved wife, Doris Yvonne Gold proceeded him in death. Married December 17th, 1951, they shared 61 years of faith, hard work, laughter, and steadfast devotion.

Born September 15th, 1935, in Truman, Arkansas to John Overton Eldridge and Hattie May Scrivner, both of whom proceed him in death along with a brother Jimmy Eldridge.  He was also proceeded by four children Russell (Butch) Jr., John Farrell, Joeseph, and Debra Kay Eldridge as well as a grandson Billy Russell Hoover- Eldridge.

Russell was a devoted family man who believed love was best shown through action. He was blessed with seven children: Marvin (Melody) Eldridge, Terry Eldridge of Grassy, Bonnie Eldridge of Canton, Ga. In addition to the seven they lovingly raised, later adopted 3 grandchildren Roy (Donna) Eldridge of Jackson, Dawn Cureton of Sikeston, Bonnie (Mike) Eldridge- Gockel of Cape Girardeau and Holden (Taylor) Eldridge of Hamilton, In. being the last child they so proudly helped raise. They had several grandchildren, and even more great grandchildren. His love did not stop. It grew from generation to generation, reaching every branch of his family tree with warmth, protection, and pride.

A man of deep faith, Russell served as a Baptist preacher, sharing the gospel sincerity, humility, and compassion. He was also an Eagles Gold card member and spent much of his life working as a painter and roofer professions he carried out with honesty, strength, and dignity. Whether he was preaching or working with his hands, he believed in giving his best to God and to others.

Russell’s beautiful blue eyes, bright and gentle, reflected the kindness he carried in his heart. They sparkled with humor, understanding, and a quiet steady strength that comforted those around him.

Known for his willingness to help anyone in need, Russell was a wonderful storyteller. The kind of man who could gather a room with just a memory, a joke, or a tale from his youth. His stories told the warmth and that unmistakable twinkle in his blue eyes, connected generations and kept his family alive in the most heartfelt way.

He welcomed all, judged none, and lived by the belief that serving others was a blessing. His kindness touched countless lives, and his generosity will continue to echo through every life he influenced.

Russell Carl Eldridge Sr leaves behind a family who loved him dearly and a community forever grateful for his presence. Though he has gone home to be with the lord, the legacy he built rooted in faith, kindness, storytelling, and generations of love- will continue to shine for years to come.

He is reunited at last, with his wife, his children, and those who all went before him. May he rest in eternal peace.

Donations can be made directly to Hutchings-Pendergrass Funeral Chapel in honor of Russel to help cover the cost.

A service will be held at Hutchings-Pendergrass Funeral Chapel in Marble Hill, MO. Visitation will be on Monday December 8, 2025, from 11:00am – 1:00pm with Funeral Service beginning at 1:00pm officiated by Phillip Jordan. Burial to follow at Grassy Cemetery.