In Loving Memory of John Russell Roy
J. Russell Roy, born July 22nd, 1935, in Oakland, Iowa, lived a full and meaningful life centered around family, hard work, adventure, and love. He passed away peacefully on September 7th, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of memories and a family who will forever cherish him.
Russell graduated from Iowa State University with a degree in Agronomy. He went on to build successful careers with Equitable of Iowa and Kansas City Life as an Investment Manager before retiring. Russ also ran the family farm in Oakland until just recently.
He was a man who enjoyed working with his hands and took great pride in building things. Over the years, he built or remodeled several homes, including the family’s beloved lake home at Lake Perry, Kansas.
During his retirement in Arizona, he found great joy in biking and hiking and enjoyed spending time with his and Mary Lou’s many friends in Sun City, AZ. In his later years, Russell, along with Mary Lou, discovered a special joy in the RV life. For the past two years, he lived in his RV, embracing the freedom, travel, and adventure that came with life on the road. It was a fitting reflection of his independent spirit and his desire to continue making the most of every day.
Family was always at the heart of Russell’s life. He was preceded in death by his loving wife, Mary Lou (Spicer) Roy; his mother, Mildred Sarah (Nash) Roy; and his father, Rex Leonidas Roy. In his final days, Russell faced the end of his life peacefully, stating he had had “a full life with no regrets,” and looked forward to the day he would be reunited with his beloved wife in heaven.
Russell is survived by his sister Gwen Miller; sons, Todd Roy (Cheryl), Stuart Roy (Bill), and Brian Roy; his stepchildren, Jeff Clasen (Vicki), Lori Callahan (John), and Kent Clasen; as well as many grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
There are no services planned at this time.
