Joseph Russell Smith

Joseph Russell Smith (Russell) was born on August 13, 1964, and passed away on January 22, 2026 at the age of 61.

Russell served two stints in the Navy. First on the aircraft carrier USS Forrestal (CV-59), then later on the aircraft carrier USS Harry S. Truman (CVN 75). He was employed as a commercial driver at Porter Warner Industries.

Russell had a tender heart toward special needs rescue animals. Over the years he adopted numerous special needs cats and diligently cared for them.

Russell attended, and was a member of New Life Baptist Church in Odenville, AL.

Officiating the funeral service is Denny LeCroy, Senior pastor at New Life Baptist Church in Odenville, AL.

Russell was preceded in death by his father James F. Smith and nephew Blake R. Smith. He is survived by his mother Sue E. Smith, brother James E. Smith, sister-in-law Kim J. Smith, niece Brittany Fittis and her husband Andrew Fittis. In addition, there are a multitude of aunts, uncles and cousins.