John Alexander Russell was born in Saline County, Arkansas, September 21, 1863, and died of smallpox March 18, 1895, at Ottowa, Kansas, whither he had gone on an extended business trip from Beebe, Arkansas, his place of residence. He was twice married; first to Anna Cameron in February, 1885, by whom he had one child. His first wife died the 25th of December following.
He married his second wife, Miss Jennie MeFadden, January 16, 1888, who survive(s) him with four children. He loved his family and cared well for them. His children he dedicated to the Lord in their infancy. May God bless and save the little fatherless children and their weeping, widowed mother.

John A. Russell was baptized in infancy and trained by a Christian father and mother to love and honor God. In his earliest childhood, he exhibited a devout spirit and a Godly fear. At the age of 10 he was converted and united with the M. E. Church, South. He was a model Christian. When but a boy of 17, he was chosen supt...his Sabbath school, and served with universal acceptability. In the church, his influence was very strong, he was among the "children of light", loved and honored, not only by his brethren, but by all who knew him, for his devout and consistent life. He was preeminently a success as late supt. of our Sabbath school. His gentle manner, sweet disposition, and sympathetic spirit endeared him to every member. He was also a member of the board of stewards, and in the faithful discharge of his official duties, he had few equals. Like the good Samaritan, he was a neighbor to the needy--feeding the hungry, and ministering to the sick. He was never "weary in well doing". Well done, thou good and faithful servant, enter thou in to the joy of the Lord.

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