Russell Garr Morton, 84, of Statesville, N.C., passed away on Sunday, May 9, 2021, at the Gordon Hospice House. Mr. Morton was born in Letcher County, Ky., on June 20, 1936, and was the son of the late Thomas and Maggie Morton.

Russell graduated high school in Letcher County and following high school, he served his country in the U.S. Army. On February 14, 1986, Russell married the former Marian Holton and together they shared 35 years of marriage before his passing. He retired from Southern Furniture and after his retirement, he worked a variety of jobs, primarily in sales.

Russell was born in the mountains of Kentucky and the mountains was forever in his blood. He loved bananas and golden delicious apples. Russell was of the Church of God Faith and he loved gospel music, and especially enjoyed listening to his future son-in-law, Timothy Walters, sing and play the piano. Above all, he loved his family. He was happiest being home and spending time with his family and hanging out with his K-9 companion, “Doby.”

Russell was one of 12 brothers, all of whom preceded him in death.

In addition to his wife Marian, Russell is survived by two daughters, Mary Morton (Rev. Timothy Walters) and Libby Green (Batyr Omurzakov).

A service to celebrate the life of Russell Morton will be conducted at 2 p.m. on Thursday, May 13, 2021, in the Nicholson Funeral Home Chapel with Rev. Timothy Walters and Rev. Tim Moose officiating. The family will speak with friends for one hour prior to the service. A private burial will be in the Salisbury National Cemetery at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Gordon Hospice House, 2341 Simonton Road, Statesville, NC 28625. Online condolences can be made to the family at www.nicholsonfunerals.com.

Nicholson Funeral Home is serving the family of Russell Garr Morton.