Jonathan (affectionately called "John" by friends and family) Wayne Russell was born non March 24, 1956 and departed this life for higher ground on Tuesday December 19, 2018 after a long illness. He was the first-born child of the late Luther Thomas Russell and the late Shirley Shanks Russell. John also held the special honor of being the oldest grandchild in the large Shanks family.

Jonathon was a lifelong resident of Lexington KY where he attended Constitution Elementary and Dunbar High Schools. He accepted Christ at a very early age and practiced his Christian beliefs on a daily basis throughout his life. This was especially evident when he served as the primary caregiver for his mother in her failing years.

John loved his family and most especially the little children and they returned his love wholeheartedly. John's presence was always a welcome site during every holiday when he joined the little ones in spirited games of Spades, UNO and Monopoly and showered the younger cousins with gifts.

Jonathon leaves to mourn his passing a sister, Brenda Russell Mack, a niece Kevonia "Angie" Christian, a grand niece, Niyla Keene, his beloved aunt and uncle[and his caregivers] Estella "Stella" Shanks, and David; aunts Phyllis (Rodney) and Lenora and Uncles Joseph, Sr (Patricia), and Gary Shanks and a (large) host of cousins and other relatives.

Committal services will be held Thursday, December 27, 2018 at 1:50pm in the Garden of Serenity