James (Jim) Russell, age 78, was born on Aug. 24, 1946. Jim passed away in Mesa, Arizona on Oct. 3, 2024. Jim lived most of his life in California and Oregon before making his home in Globe, Arizona where he worked for Cecil’s Trucking for 12 years and met his loving wife Patricia (Patty DeAnda). Jim retired from trucking in 2017 and moved to California to spend time with his children and grandchildren.
Jim was a man of remarkable resilience during his heroic battle with cancer for over 17 years, showcased in his incredible fighting spirit as he continuously defied the odds.
Jim’s life was marked by his eclectic love for music, spending countless hours enjoying tunes from various genres whether it was behind the wheel of his semi-truck, his RV or kicked back in his recliner. Jim was also known for his exceptional cooking, specifically his famous biscuits & gravy.
A protective and loving husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather, Jim valued the time spent with loved ones. Jim’s loyalty extended beyond his family to his friends, earning him the reputation of a steadfast companion.
Jim is survived by his wife Patricia (Patty DeAnda); children Becky (David), Robert (Kari), Heather, Christopher (Angella), Alysa, and Brittany (Victor); grandchildren Ashley, Maci, Deric, Nicholas and Matthew; 3 great-grandchildren; and 2 sisters Gail and Betty. Jim also gained an extensive and loving family (DeAnda and Ihrig families) in his marriage with Patty.
Jim will be missed greatly by all who knew him. A gathering celebrating the life of Jim Russell will be held on Saturday, Nov. 2, 2024 from 1-4 p.m. at the Elks Lodge in Globe.
