Russell "Russ" F. Rowley's Obituary
Russell “Russ” Rowley, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and proud American veteran, passed away peacefully on April 1st from lymphoma, surrounded by the love of his family.
Russell was born December 23,1950 in Madisonville, Kentucky. At the age of 19, he enlisted in the United States Air Force in August 1970, beginning a distinguished military career marked by dedication and service to his country. On December 26, 1970, he married his childhood sweetheart, Dianne, in Madisonville. Together, they began their life as a military family, first stationed at Dyess Air Force Base in Abilene, Texas.
Russell was a Vietnam War veteran, serving at Korat Air Base in Thailand, and later contributed support during the Gulf War. After his first deployment, he returned to Abilene to reunite with his wife and infant daughter, Cheryl, born in December 1971. Their son, Steven, was born in March 1977. In 1981, the family was stationed overseas at Clark Air Base in the Philippines—a time Russell often described as one of the most cherished periods of his life, filled with family adventures and travel throughout the Philippines, Okinawa, and Hawaii.
In 1984, Russell was transferred to Hurlburt Field near Fort Walton Beach, Florida, where he stayed until his medical retirement as a Master Sergeant in August 1994. Throughout his military career, he served as a maintenance superintendent, working proudly on the C-130 gunship. Despite having only three primary duty stations, his role required frequent temporary assignments. His service was recognized with numerous awards and decorations, including the Meritorious Service Medal and the Outstanding Conduct Medal.
Following his retirement, Russell embraced life fully, dedicating time to family, friendships, and hobbies. He enjoyed gardening, building koi ponds, cooking, and traveling. Known for his strong work ethic, he tackled nearly every home improvement project himself—except plumbing. Russell took immense pride in his veteran status, his enduring 55-year marriage to Dianne, and the life they built together.
He was a proud father to Cheryl and Steven, a loving father-in-law to Amy, Lance and David. Russ was a devoted grandfather to Jordan and Jamie, whom he spoke about with great joy to anyone who would listen. Russell also valued his wide circle of friends, whom he considered chosen family. In 2025, he joined Newberry Baptist Church, where he was an active member. He also enjoyed his involvement with the Koi Club and Garden Club.
Russell’s life was a testament to service, family, and integrity. He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who knew him.
A celebration of Russell’s life, with military honors, will be held on Friday, April 10th at Newberry Baptist Church. Visitation with family and friends will begin at 10:30 a.m., followed by the service at 11:00 a.m.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to First Baptist Church Newberry Baptist Church or Haven Hospice Veterans Program in recognition of their compassionate care.
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