Marvin Ray Russell

Marvin Ray Russell, Seminole, OK resident, passed away on Tuesday, May 13, 2025 at his home at the age of 89. Marvin was born on September 15, 1935 in Stroud, OK to William Lee and Lillie Lillian (Hulsey) Russell. He was a 1954 graduate of Stroud High School and then received his electrician license from Vo Tech in Shawnee. Marvin married the love of his life Wilma Rainwater on January 11, 1956 in Roger Mills, OK and they spent 69 beautiful years together.

Marvin proudly served for two years with the Seventh Army Mobile Hospital in Germany. He worked for 39 years for AT&T, Southwestern Bell and then At&T and loved his work. His hobby of baling hay turned into another job and he enjoyed every bit of that work alongside Wilma and his beloved John Deere tractors. Marvin and Wilma loved to travel by car and go camping when the kids were young. They took several cruises and eventually bus trips so he could enjoy the scenery and experience not in the driver’s seat. The most treasured trips were the anniversary trips to Hawaii, especially Maui. Marvin was a man that prided himself in working hard and providing well for his family but he appreciated a simple lifestyle and that may be part of why he loved Maui’s “hang loose” philosophy to life.

Marvin is survived by his wife, Wilma Russell of the home; son and daughter-in-law, Ricky Ray and Anita  Russell of Seminole; daughter and son-in-law, Peggy Sue and Bill West of Seminole; brother-in-law and sister-in-law, Raymond and Thelma Melson of Denver, CO and many other family and friends.

Marvin was preceded in death by his parents; sister, Thelma Whitt and brothers, Frank Murray Russell, Leon Lee Russell and infant brother, Lawrence James Russell.

Viewing will be Thursday, May 15, 2025 from 8:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Swearingen Funeral Home in Seminole, OK.

Graveside services with military honors will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Friday, May 16, 2025 at Stroud Cemetery.