Jerry Lee Russell Obituary (2025)

Jerry L. Russell of Yakima, beloved husband, father, grandpa, brother, and uncle passed away peacefully on December 14, 2025 at The Ponderosa following a short battle with cancer. Jerry was born on May 18, 1950 to Gertrude and Clarence Russell in Sunnyside, Washington. After the family settled in Yakima, he attended and graduated from Davis High School in 1968. Following graduation, Jerry became a supervisor at the Cascade Drive In, where he met the love of his life Cheryl Johnston. Jerry and Cheryl were married April 8, 1972. In 1971, Jerry started working at Shield's Bag and Printing, where he dedicated 43 years of service before retiring in 2014. Jerry loved to tinker. He was always building things from scraps, or fixing things in his garage. He took great pride in his lawn and could often be found mowing the grass or carefully picking up the tree leaves to keep it immaculate. Above all Jerry loved being involved in his children's lives. Whether serving as a group leader for the church Cadets program, coaching soccer or basketball, or traveling all over to watch his kids' many games, he was always present and supportive. This devotion continued with his grandchildren. Jerry rarely missed a dance recital, gymnastic showcase, or a soccer or basketball game. Jerry is survived by his four children: Andrew (Mikal) of Yakima; Christopher (Tana) of Maple Valley; Kenneth (Andrea) of Seattle; and Jennifer (John) of Vancouver, along with his nine grand children: Grace, Jake, Carter, Kylee, Noah, Hana, Keyan, Kaelia, and Lotus. He is also survived by his brother James (Janet) of Mesa Arizona, and sister Melody (Jerry, deceased) of Yakima. Jerry was preceded in death by his beloved wife Cheryl; his parents, Gertrude and Clarence Russell; Mother-in-law, Edna Johnston; and his Father-in-law Jerry Johnston. The family would like to extend a heartfelt thanks to the nurses, med-techs, and supervisors at The Ponderosa for the compassionate care they provided and for helping make his final months more comfortable. Jerry was very passionate about helping others and often volunteered to help distribute food at The Pantry at Moxee next to East Valley Reformed Church. In lieu of flowers please consider making a donation to The Pantry at Moxee. A celebration of life will take place after the holidays. More details will be shared in the coming weeks.