Russell Wagner, age 64, of Paducah, KY passed away on Monday, April 22, 2019.
Russell was born in Benton, KY on July 17, 1954 to Clayton and Lucille Wagner. He graduated from Cornell University, then moved back to Paducah to partner with his brother, Bob Wagner, in their business, Wagner Moving and Storage. Russell was a man of many hobbies with softball, hunting, pool, golf, and bird watching to name a few. He also enjoyed fishing and once earned the title of Bass Masters Champion.
A "silent giver" may be the phrase to best describe Russell. He often drove around Paducah early in the morning with a cooler full of water to refresh local runners. He would generously offer meals to those in need, pay the utility bills for someone down on their luck and even give shoes and crutches to those without the means to provide for themselves. He was also quick to offer assistance to anyone who may have run off the road on a slick winter night. He did all of these things while no one was watching and with little fanfare, but with a heart full of compassion and humility.
Russell is survived by his wife of 22 years, Julie Wagner; his daughter, Jackie Long and husband, Eric, of Benton; his mother, Lucille Wagner of Paducah; his stepson, John Henry and wife, Kim, of Belgium; one brother, Bob Wagner and wife, Jill, of Paducah; two grandchildren, Lucyanne Long and Bode Long; and his nieces and nephews, Ryan (McCall) Wagner, Ross (Sara) Wagner, and Rachel (Matt) Gilland.
He was preceded in death by his father, Clayton Wagner.
A private service will be held at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, expressions of sympathy may take the form of donation to: American Cancer Society, P.O. Box 22478, Oklahoma City, OK 73123 https://www.cancer.org/
Milner & Orr Funeral Home and Cremation Services of Paducah is in charge of arrangements.
