Jerry R. Russell, 90 of Belpre, Ohio

Jerry R. Russell, age 90, of Belpre, Ohio, died Monday, October 12, 2026, at Elison Assisted Living in Marietta. He was born September 26, 1936, in East Liverpool, son of the late Harry Roland “Ral” and Mary Chamberlin Russell. Jerry was a 1954 graduate of Carson Long Military Academy in New Bloomfield, Pennsylvania and attended the College of Wooster. He was a 1959 graduate of Geneva College in Beaver Falls, Pennsylvania, where he earned a Bachelor of Science Degree in Education, and in 1961, received a Masters Degree in Education from the University of Pittsburgh. Jerry served as a principal for Southern Local Schools in Highlandtown, Ohio, Leetonia Village Schools, and the Richland School District in St. Clairsville, Ohio. He served as superintendent for Union Local Schools and Belpre City Schools, from which he retired after thirty years of service, and he also served as an interim superintendent for Morgan Local Schools and Noble Local Schools. He enjoyed being a football and basketball referee for high schools and colleges. Jerry was also a farmer who owned and operated a dairy and beef farm. He was a member of the Jaycees in St. Clairsville and Belpre, a member of the Caldwell and Belpre Lions Clubs, and served as a volunteer for the American Red Cross. Jerry was a member of the Pioneer Presbyterian Church, where he served as a deacon. He touched many lives.

In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by his wife, Helen Marie Miller Russell, whom he married November 23, 1957, and who died July 7, 2026; his son, James Brian Russell; and his brother, James H. Russell.

Surviving are his children, Douglas R. Russell of Wellsville and Amy M. Russell of Belpre; five grandchildren, Jennifer Russell, Levi Russell, Caitlyn (Jordan) Hamilton, Teresa (Chuck) Peck, and Chad Hawkins; 14 great-grandchildren; 6 great-great-grandchildren; a daughter-in-law, Linda Russell of Salem; and several nieces and nephews.

A Celebration of Life service will be observed at a later time. McVay-Perkins Funeral Home, 416 East Street, Caldwell, is caring for the family. An online guestbook may be signed at www.mcvay-perkins.com