Russell Stewart Jr., age 72, of Albia, Iowa, passed away on Tuesday, August 4, 2026, at his home.
Russell was born on April 5, 1954, in Albia, IA, to Russell Sr. and Alice (Cook) Stewart. He began school at Moravia before attending and graduating from Centerville High School in 1972. Following high school, Russell began his working career at Chamberlains in Albia before going to work at Kness Manufacturing. He later drove a bus for Ragtime Industries and worked as a custodian for the First Christian Church before working on the East Coast. There he worked for Phillips Services Corp. for 4 years, traveling the coastal states and creating memories of a lifetime. After returning to Iowa, Russell worked for several years in plant services at Clow Valve Company in Oskaloosa.
Russell enjoyed being outdoors, especially fishing. He also enjoyed watching sports and was a devoted Caitlin Clark fan. He was an avid Nascar fan, with Tony Stewart and Kyle Bush being his favorite drivers. Russell was a kind and loving man. Although he never had children of his own, Russell dearly loved his nieces and nephews, treating them as if they were his own. His daily trips to the Highway Restaurant or Hardees were something he looked forward to for a meal as well as the conversations and friendships he enjoyed there. Above all else, Russell loved spending time with his family and friends.
Russell is survived by a brother, Wilbur (Janet) Stewart and a sister, Marsha Willetts. Russell is also survived by many nieces, nephews, cousins, and good friends.
He is preceded in death by his parents, Russell Sr. and Alice Stewart; a sister, Virginia Bakalar; a brother, Paul Stewart; a brother-in-law, Jim Willetts; and nephews, Paul David Jesperson and Randy Jesperson.
Visitation will be held from 10:00 a.m.-11:00 a.m. on Friday, August 7, 2026, at the Tharp Funeral Home in Albia, with Russell’s family present to greet family and friends.
Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, August 7, 2026, at the Tharp Funeral Home in Albia, with Pastor Lynda Carlson officiating. Per Russell’s wishes, his body will cremated following services and a private family burial will be held at Oak View Cemetery at a later date.
A memorial has been established to the Welcome Home Soldier monument in Albia.
