Mark Ridge Russell, Jr.

Mark Ridge Russell, Jr., 69, of Skellytown, died Friday, December 13, 2013 in Lubbock. Graveside services will be at 2:00 PM Wednesday, December 18, 2013 at the Miami Cemetery under the direction of Carmichael-Whatley Funeral Directors of Pampa. Mr. Russell was born August 11, 1944 Pampa where he attended schools and graduated from Pampa High School. He married Laqueta Dunn in Pampa. Mark was a cowboy his entire life. As a young man, he participated in the amateur rodeo circuit. Later, he worked as a ranch hand for Jim Campbell for fifteen years. He then worked at various ranches, including the 6666 Ranch for over 20 years, retiring in 1998. Mark also participated in 4H where he taught horsemanship. He will be remembered as a loving husband, father and grandfather. He was preceded in death by his parents, Betsy and Mark Russell, Sr.; a brother, Bill Russell; and a grandson, Ridge Russell. Survivors include his wife, Laqueta Russell of the home; two sons, Matt Russell and wife Thelma of Stinnett and Darin Russell of Fritch; a daughter, Jo Lynne Slaton of Houston; three sisters, Linda Smith of Arizona, Mary Bartee and husband Jim of Abilene, and Carolyn Allison and husband Marvin of Pampa; six grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. Memorials may be made to a favorite charity.