Russell Clare Thomas

In Loving Memory of Russell Clare Thomas August 29, 1927 - April 29, 2026 Russell Clare Thomas, affectionately known to many as "Uncle Russ," fell asleep in Jesus on the morning of April 29, 2026, in the home of his son and daughter-in-law, Jay and Helene, near Uchee Pines Health Institute in Alabama. He was 98 years old. Born in the quiet town of Hope, Michigan, Russell was the beloved son of Richmond and Grace Thomas. His life was a tapestry woven with threads of faith, love, and unwavering dedication to service. Russell’s journey began in the nurturing embrace of a large family, with his twelve siblings, most of whom preceded him in death, alongside his beloved wife of nearly seven decades, Faith Cox Thomas. Russell and Faith married on May 29, 1949, embarking on a life journey that was a testament to loyal partnership and profound love until Faith's passing in 2019. Russell's educational journey took him from Edenville Seventh-day Adventist Elementary School to Cedar Lake Academy, where he graduated in 1943. He furthered his studies at Emmanuel Missionary College in Berrien Springs, Michigan, earning a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration. Russell was a man of diligence and perseverance, working tirelessly to finance his education through various jobs, from canvassing religious books to operating a lathe during the night shift. Russell's career was a remarkable 44-year odyssey in Literature Evangelism. It began as the assistant Publishing Director of the Michigan Conference in Detroit, advancing to roles of increasing responsibility across the globe. His calling led him and his family to South Korea, Lincoln, Nebraska, and eventually to the Middle East and Eastern Africa, where he directed the Publishing Ministry through challenging times, including the Lebanese Civil War. After two and half years leading his own beloved Michigan Conference, his leadership extended to Singapore, where he managed the literature ministry across the Far Eastern Division, guiding thousands of literature evangelists and fostering the growth of ten publishing houses. Even in retirement, Russell’s passion for service did not wane. Back in Michigan, after two years of retirement, he volunteered as an interim pastor, eventually planting a church in Clare, now a vibrant congregation of 125 members, with a new church building, dedicated debt-free. Russell's life was a testament to his love for people, his storytelling prowess, and his hidden talents, including his skill as a slalom water skier. His dream of being a farmer in heaven speaks volumes of his humble heart and eternal optimism. Russell leaves behind a legacy of love and faith through his surviving family: his sisters Virginia and Willadean, his children LaVon Russell, Kendall Delos, Jay Donovan, Shaloy Sharon, their devoted spouses, twelve grandchildren, great and three great-great-grandchildren, many cherished cousins, and a host of friends who were touched by his kindness and wisdom. A service to celebrate Russell's remarkable life will be held on May 6, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at the Edenville Seventh-day Adventist Church. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to the "Publishing" Memorial Fund at HeReturns, continuing Russell’s mission to spread the word he cherished so deeply. Donations can be made at https://www.hereturns1.org/donate. As we honor the life of Russell Clare Thomas, we think of Isaiah 52:7, a scripture that encapsulates his life's work and faith: "How beautiful upon the mountains are the feet of him that bringeth good tidings, that publisheth peace; that bringeth good tidings of good, that publisheth salvation; that saith unto Zion, Thy God reigneth!" Russell's legacy is etched in the hearts of those he touched, and his memory will forever be a guiding light of faith, love, and service. His hope and ours is rested in the resurrection at the soon coming of Jesus Christ.