Russell Jennings McClelland

Russell Jennings McClelland, 68, went Home to be with Jesus on May 19, 2026, with his precious wife by his side. Born on May 13, 1958, in Beckley, West Virginia, he was the son to the late Russell and Lona Wilkson McClelland. In his final days, Russell was surrounded by the love of his family, leaving behind a legacy of love, humor, faith, and unwavering devotion to those he loved most.

Russell never knew a stranger and he never wanted to. Whether striking a conversation over a car, a Journey or Bob Seger shirt, or simply to brighten someone’s day, he had a gift for always making people feel seen and valued. Making others smile, laugh, and feel uplifted was naturally who he was.

Knowing Russell meant realizing that even on the hardest days, he could still smile, crack jokes, and encourage everyone around him. His health struggles with multiple sclerosis began in the early 1990s, during a time when treatments and medicine were far different than they are today. He faced decades of health challenges with remarkable faith, perseverance, and courage. Through it all, his faith in God and the steadfast love and support of his wife, Nancy, carried him and his family through every trial.

Russell loved deeply and celebrated life fully. Nothing made him happier than hearing about another grandchild joining the family. Watching an Orioles game or listening and dancing to Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons was never boring and he would not have wanted it any other way. His stories, laughter, and commentary filled every room he entered. He made every moment memorable.

The impact Russell made on his family and friends will extend far beyond the battles he faced in life. Russell’s ability to make the best out of trials, his dedication to his family, and his love for others will continue to inspire everyone who knew him. Though his earthly journey has ended, his legacy lives on through the family he cherished so dearly.

Russell would want us all to smile, celebrate life, and continue loving our families the way he did. Above all, Russell would want us to know that the greatest decision of his life was placing his faith and trust in Jesus Christ. The second was marrying the love of his life, Nancy or, as Russell lovingly called her, “Twigs.”

In addition to his parents, Russell was preceded in death by his six sisters, Patricia Bates, Beulah Jane Lewis, Dorothy Lesher, Linda Johnston, Carol McClelland, and Mabel Claire Hotelling. He is survived by his loving wife of 43 years, Nancy McClelland; his daughter, Chloe Diona Hill; and his sons, Russell Jennings McClelland Jr. (Alice), Patrick Quinton McClelland (Alicia), and Edmond Thomas McClelland (Claire).

He also leaves behind eight beloved grandchildren, Ryder Russell McClelland, Olivia Hill, Kaden McClelland, Lillian Hill, Raeley McClelland, John Hill, Madelyn Hill, and Beckett McClelland; along with his sister, Evelyn Sovine, many extended family members, and friends from the Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons Fan Club and the MS Society who loved him dearly.

Please continue to pray for Nancy, who stood faithfully beside him and cared for him through decades of sickness and hardship. Russell loved Nancy deeply, and she loved him unconditionally.

Prayers for Patrick and Alicia as they took care of Mom and Dad with love and patience.

The family will receive friends at the Clarke Funeral Home in Kenbridge on Monday, May 25, from 4:00 to 6:00 PM for a time of visitation.

Services will be held on Tuesday, May 26, in Kenbridge, VA. The graveside service will take place at Kenbridge Heights Cemetery, 11:00 AM, followed immediately by a Celebration of Life at the Lunenburg Country Club.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Pleasant Plains Baptist Church in Apex North Carolina.            

Clarke Funeral Home, of Kenbridge, is serving the family.