Well-known Cape lawyer dead at 83

A prominent Cape Girardeau lawyer has died.

Joe Russell, 83, was pronounced dead early Thursday morning at Southeast Missouri Hospital, from complications of surgery, according to family members.

Russell was well known around the city as a partner with the firm of Limbaugh, Russell, Payne and Howard, where he worked since 1949 as one of the firm's original partners. He worked full time up until his death.

Russell represented high-profile clients like Southeast Missouri State University and Cape Girardeau's public schools.

"His real passion in his law practice was in education law," son John Russell said.

J. Michael Payne, a partner at the firm with Russell for about 19 years, said Russell practiced law not for money or prestige, but because he loved the occupation and saw law as a way to help others. He said Russell carried on the tradition of Rush H. Limbaugh Sr., by using the law as a force for good.

"Joe liked being a lawyer, and he liked trying to help people through the difficult times," Payne said.

Son Kensey Russell said his father assessed the risks before choosing to have the surgery, and the family knew of the dangers while hoping for the best outcome.

"It is comforting to know that Dad placed his complete and absolute faith in the Lord and was 100 percent trusting in him ... including the very last day of his life," daughter Carol Eighmey said.

In addition to his prominence as a lawyer, Russell was dedicated to his church, Lynwood Baptist, and his work with the Greater St. Louis Area Council of the Boy Scouts of America.

Russell was an active member of the Scouts since he first joined as the age of 9, Kensey Russell said.

"This is a life to be celebrated, not a death to be mourned," Payne said. "Joe would tell you the Bible talks about three score and 10, and Joe lived till four score. The neat part about it was Joe lived until he died."

In addition to his three children, Russell is survived by his wife, Hertha, 77, with whom he did everything including participating in Scouts.

"They were truly what husband and wife are supposed to be," Eighmey said. "They set an example not just for their kids but for lots of other couples and families."

Visitation for Russell will be from 4 to 8 p.m. Saturday at Ford and Sons Mount Auburn Funeral Home. The funeral will be at 2 p.m. Sunday at Lynwood Baptist Church.

msanders@semissourian.com

335-6611, extension 182