James Boyce Russell, 57

James Boyce Russell, age 57, of Saluda peacefully went home to be with the Lord on Friday, March 13, 2015 surrounded by his loving family. He was born April 2, 1957 in Henderson County to the late J.B. and Rosa Lee Burns Russell. In addition to his parents, Mr. Russell was preceded in death by his wife, Cynthia Surrell Russell; and his son, Jay B. Russell.

A native and lifelong resident of Henderson County, Mr. Russell retired from Hendersonville Water and Sewer after 30 years of employment and was a member of Mountain Page Baptist Church in Saluda. He enjoyed being outdoors, hunting, fishing, gardening, and NASCAR. He was a member of the National Rifle Association. He was a loving father, always caring and providing for his family. He was loved and will be dearly missed by all who knew him.

He is survived by his loving daughter and son-in-law, Jessica and Tyler Samotis; his step-son, Danny Griner; his brother and sister-in-law, Bud and Shelba Russell; his three sisters and their husbands, Myrtle and John Mayfield, Bonnie and Phil Stanley, Jenny and Eddy Hefner; his former wife, Mary P. Russell; his special aunts, Effie Russell and Rona Phelps; and several nieces and nephews.

The funeral service will be held 2:00 p.m. Tuesday, March 17, 2015 in the Sanctuary of Mountain Page Baptist Church with the Reverend Jimmy Owens and Pastor Billy Jarvis officiating. Burial will follow the service in the church cemetery.

The family will receive friends Monday evening from 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. at Thos. Shepherd and Son Funeral Home.

Flowers are welcome, or memorial donations may be directed to UNC Lineberger Cancer Research, 101 Manning Drive Chapel Hill, NC 27514.

An online register book is available for family and friends by visiting www.thosshepherd.com. Thos. Shepherd & Son Funeral Directors are in charge of the arrangements.