Russell David Birge

Russell David Birge, 79, a resident of Moberly, passed away on Sunday, July 14, 2024, at University Hospital.

Russell was born on May 17, 1945, in Moberly, the son of Alfred Stanley Birge and Sarah (Stevens) Birge. On January 14, 1984, in Moberly, he married Martha Lucille Embree, and she survives. 

Russell was known as a good Christian man, who loved the Lord and loved his church. He was very active in his church, King James Baptist Church. Russell was a musician and volunteered his time and talents at local nursing homes, where he would take his guitar and sing hymns glorifying the Lord for the residents. He worked for Norfolk and Western Railroad for 10 years, before becoming a contractor and where he would do general handyman services as well as remodeling houses. Most of all Russell enjoyed spending time with his family, but especially loved the time he was able to spend with his grandchildren. 

In addition to his wife of over 40 years, he will be sadly missed and forever remembered by three children, Kevin Birge and wife Maire of Moberly, Monica Ferrell and husband Bradly of Ashland City, Tennessee, Jeffrey Roe and wife Jacqueline of Huntsville, Alabama; six grandchildren, Sean Hellensmith, Alyssa Ferrell, Eliana Ferrell, Katie Roe, Syndey Roe, and Caleb Roe; one great grandson, Kieran Hellensmith; one brother, Eddie Birge of Junction City, Kansas; two sisters, Glenda Crutchfield of Huntsville, and Sandra Burris and husband Fran of Camdenton. 

Russell was preceded in death by his parents and one infant sister, Myrtle Irene Birge. 

Funeral services honoring Russell’s life will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Friday, July 19, 2024, at Pathway-Millard Family Funeral Chapel with Rev. Ryan Darr officiating. A visitation will be held from 11:00 a.m. until the time of the service; following the services, Russell will be laid to rest in Chapel Grove Cemetery in Clark. 

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions are suggested to King James Baptist Church, 1315 Henry St. Moberly, MO 65270. 

Local arrangements are under the direction of Pathway-Millard Family Funeral Chapel, 411 Union Avenue, Moberly, MO 65270 (660)263-7284. Condolences may be left online for the family at www.pathwaymemorial.com.