Msg. Russell D. Wilson, 71, of Eubank, Kentucky , retired US Army, obeyed the final order of his Supreme Commander on Monday, August 15, 2011 in Somerset , Kentucky .

He was born June 23, 1940, in Ansel , Kentucky to Alma K. and Herbert H. Wilson. 

He is survived by Lois, his wife of 47 years, Anita K. Wilson and son Derrick, Jack Willis and son Jacob, Donna L. and William Cox and children, Barron and Liam and Darren and Renee` Wilson and children, Lane, Toby and Dawn, all of whom he cherished dearly.  He is also survived by Ray and Faustine Wilson, Audrine and Carmel Tucker, Lonnie and Jeannette Wilson, Mary Susan and Tom Richardson, Gilbert and Mary Ann Wilson and Stevie Wilson, with whom he shared the special bond of love and respect as brothers and sisters.  He was preceded in death by one sister, Pauline VanNostrand.  He will be missed by many nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews, as well as extended family and friends.

He was a ROTC instructor at Northern Middle School and Pulaski County High School for 14 years and was honored to be teacher, friend, mentor, substitute father and guide to a multitude of cadets and students he encountered during his teaching career.  Russell was a devoted American with the conviction that as Americans we have the privilege and responsibility to take our place in our world and make a positive difference to the fullest of our capabilities.  He lived his life to do just that and by his example and teaching, encouraged all that he knew to do the same.

Russell served in the Kentucky National Guard and the US Army for 23 years.  His duties took him to Japan , Korea , Europe and Vietnam , as well as numerous stations in the United States .  In 1971, he was assigned to the Department of Defense as a Logistics and Supply specialist and served in that capacity until his retirement in 1980.  He was proud to be a soldier.  It showed both in the way he presented himself and the way he fulfilled his duties.  He was commended by many of his commanding officers and by officials of other nations, for his dedication and contributions beyond the requirements of his duty.

A funeral service will be held at 11 AM Friday, August 19, 2011 at Morris & Hislope Funeral Home with Bro. Philip Fisher and Bro. John Mark Toby officiating.

Burial will be in Science Hill Cemetery .

Visitation will be after 5 PM Thursday, August 18, 2011 at Morris & Hislope Funeral Home.

Donations may be made to Hospice of Lake Cumberland.