Russell H. Eddington

Russell Eddington, of St. Charles, Missouri, received his heavenly reward on Thursday, March 3, 2011 at the age of 87. Loving husband of Joyce Eddington; beloved son of the late Harrison and Edna Eddington; devoted father of Sherrill "Sherry" (Ron) Mitchell and Terrell "Terry" (Donna Joy) Eddington; cherished grandfather of Kimberly (John) Greenlee, Christina (Amos) Reed and Darren (Krista) Eddington; treasured great-grandfather of Isaac Reed. Russell was a beloved uncle, cousin, brother-in-law and friend to many. Russell Harrison Eddington was born on March 18, 1923 in Portage des Sioux, Missouri. His parents, Harrison and Edna Eddington, raised him on their farm on the Grafton Ferry Road. He attended a one-room school house and studied by a coal oil lamp. His thirst for knowledge was fortified by the teacher who boarded in their home and tutored him in the evenings. This enabled him to learn his multiplication tables through the twelves by the end of first grade. He was an excellent student all through school, consistently earning top grades. In order to attend St. Charles High School, Russell rode his bike for two miles on a gravel road every school day to meet the bus. As his parents came to Christ through the mininstry of the local St. Charles Presbyterian Church, Russell also found Christ. He attended a youth conference at Lindenwood College. It was at a youth convention that he first felt the nearness of Christ's presence on the steps of Sibley Hall at an outdoor meeting, which ultimately led him to become spirit filled. After Russell's high school graduation from St. Charles High School in 1940, he worked on the farm for four years. When he began his military service, he talked to his young sweetheart and asked if she would wait for him. He entered the United States Merchant Marine in 1945 where he trained to be a radio operator. He served on the U.S.S. William Pepper and the U.S.S. Fire Island. He was very instrumental in radio transmissions as his ship went through the English Channel. He assisted with other supply/rescue missions as they came to the aid of other ships. His duties included radio operator, purser, and being in charge of the ship's hospital. He left the service as a commissioned officer in 1947. Six months later, on June 14, 1947, Russell Harrison Eddington and Joyce Arlene Sellenschuetter were united in marriage. Their home was blessed with two children, Sherrill Arlene in 1950 and Terrell Russell in 1954. Russell and Joyce celebrated their 63rd wedding anniversary last year. Russell completed his Bachelor's of Science Degree in Psychology and Biology at Washington University. He also completed a Master of Arts Degree in Mathematics from Webster University. He was the first male student to apply for admission to Lindenwood College in St. Charles. His application was originally turned down, but this opened the pathway for male students shortly thereafter. He later took classes from Lindenwood with great pride. His Christian service at First Assembly of God Church in St. Charles included serving on the board of deacons, choir, orchestra, assistant sunday school superintendent, and pastor's friend. Russell was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. His family was his pride and joy. He loved the Lord with all his heart. We rejoice in knowing that today he is with his Savior. Memorials may be made to Mark Fitz Scholarship Fund at Lindenwood University or First Assembly of God St. Charles Education Fund.