Leslie Wayne Russell, 83, passed away peacefully in his sleep on Saturday, February 24, 2024, at his home in Monterey.

He was born October 3, 1940 in Jena, LA to the union of his parents, Boatner and Lona Russell.

Wayne lived his faith at home, in the oilfield and in the world. He worked many years in the oilfield industry from the time he graduated high school until he semi-retired in 2015. In the fall of 2015 at the age of 75, God did a new thing and let Wayne discover a talent he did not know he had. Out of stress and boredom, he discovered a love for woodworking when he cut a cypress knee and carved a duck. After almost 60 years in the oilfield, who would have ever dreamed that God had another plan?

Wayne had a true entrepreneurial spirit. He was co-founder of Southern Oil Tools and founded Russell Packers and Services, Cross Bayou Campground and Papaw’s Duck Nest. Throughout these endeavors, he prioritized his faith and his relationship with each person he met. When you met Wayne, you left as a friend.

He was a faithful member of Lismore Baptist Church and was the doorman greeter for many years. His infectious smile and his welcoming outgoing spirit will be remembered by many.

Wayne’s family was at the heart of his life, and he loved them fiercely. He was a wonderful, loving husband who always put his wife’s needs first. From saying the blessing before each meal, teaching his granddaughters to drive in his truck, riding on the pontoon boat and tractor, sharing his love of woodworking and teaching them to fish, Papaw showed his family his faith and love.

His great sense of humor, sentimental spirit and giving nature was shown in everything he did.

A going home celebration was held on Wednesday, February 28, 2024, at Lismore Baptist Church, with Revs. Ken Gilmore and Tony Ganey officiating.

Interment followed in the Lismore Baptist Church Cemetery, under the direction of Kinner & Stevens Funeral Home, Jena, LA.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his sister, Maxine Cooper; and his grandson, Beau Samuel Russell.

Those left to cherish his memory include his wife of 65 years, Wilma; his three sons, David Russell (Penney), Mike Russell (Jeanette) and Jason Russell (Amber) several grandchildren, Shelby Parrish, Sara Russell (Michael Long), Ashley Russell, Jessica Emfinger (Jake), Shelly Collinson (Chris) and Brooklyn Russell; four great-grandchildren, Gage May, Amelia Emfinger, Thomas Emfinger and Hannah Collinson; a special fur-baby, Sweetie Pie; and numerous nieces, nephews and friends.

Pallbearers were David Lansdale, Dillon Wickliffe, Ronnie Manson, Tate Strebeck, Paul Avery and Lane Barlow.