Russell “Rusty” Max Hester, 70, passed into his heavenly home Monday, Jan. 24, 2022, in the afternoon at Franciscan Health Lafayette.
He was born July 11, 1951, in Crawfordsville, to Albert H. & Virginia “Irene” (Crow) Hester.
He was a 1969 graduate of New Market High School. He was involved with basketball, track, cross country and band. He was also active in 4-H showing Angus cattle.
He drove school bus No. 6 for 34 years as a contract driver for South Montgomery School Corporation. He was a life-long farmer, being a good steward of God’s land. He was one of the first in the area to go no-till in his farming practices. He first started farming with his father and brother. Most recently farming with his sons, third generation. He enjoyed croquet, ping pong and playing euchre.
He was a member of Whitesville Christian Church where he was involved in the music ministry. Previously he was a member of the Parkersburg Christian Church where he was involved with the music of the church. He was also a deacon and church treasurer for over 30 years.
He was a loving and caring husband to Sallie Lou (Simpson) Hester. They were married June 28, 1975, at Browns Valley Christian Church. They enjoyed singing duets together. She survives.
He was very proud of his two sons that also survive, Brian (Meagan) and Todd (Morgan). He was also a Papaw to his precious grandchildren, Hailey, Hannah and Tad. He is also survived by brother Albert “Dale” Hester; sisters-in-law and brothers-in-law, Peggy (Brad) Grayson, Patti (James) McCollum, Polly (Larry) Rhoads and Brad (Ellen) Simpson; and many nieces, nephews, cousins and dear friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents; sister-in-law Nelda Hester; and in-laws Austin & Lucy Simpson.
Visitation will be at Whitesville Christian Church, 3603 S. Ladoga Road, Crawfordsville, from 3 to 7 p.m. Friday. The funeral service will be at the church at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, with Pastors Mike Whitacre, David Bower and Andy Schindler officiating. The service will be live-steamed and recorded which can be viewed on Rusty’s obituary page at www.sandersfuneralcare.com. Burial will follow at Russellville Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be sent to Whitesville Christian Church, Building Fund, 3603 S. Ladoga Road, Crawfordsville, IN 47933.
Share memories and condolences online at www.sandersfuneralcare.com.
