James "Scott" Russell

James “Scott” Russell of Amarillo, Texas, passed away Wednesday morning, April 8, 2026, in the presence of loving family.

Scott was born on April 19, 1949 in Amarillo to George Ervin and Charlene Keeney Russell. He grew up in Dumas, Texas where he graduated 6th in class from Dumas High School. The Baptist church was a cornerstone of his upbringing, shaping an unwavering faith that carried him through life’s joys and hardships.

A proud graduate of Baylor University, he earned both his bachelor’s and master’s degrees while serving as a graduate assistant. His passion for Baylor football was only rivaled by his deep, abiding love for the Lord, his family and friends.

Scott began his professional journey as a Disability Examiner in Austin, Texas before moving back to the Panhandle where he met and married Susan Fangio Russell. He went on to have a long and successful career in the oil and gas business, first with Diamond Shamrock Corporation and later with Mewbourne Oil Company.

Scott could carry on a conversation with anyone he met, often connecting with people through his quick wit and lighthearted teasing. He was a constant and steady presence as a husband, father, son, brother and grandfather, always protecting, supporting and providing for those he loved with a strong-willed and traditional nature that defined him.

He was preceded in death by his parents and two nieces, Dhana Sparks and Stefanie Sparks Faught.

Scott is survived by his wife, Susan; his daughter, Robyn Russell Kelln (Jeremy); his son, Stephen “Steve” Scott Russell; his sister, Sherry Russell Sparks (Larry); and four grandchildren, Kellan Anderson, Beckham Kelln, Riley Russell, and Trace Russell.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorials be made to a charity of your choice or First Baptist Church television ministries.

Visitation will be from 2:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. on Sunday, April 26 at Boxwell Brothers Funeral Home, 2800 Paramount Blvd. A private Celebration of Life will be held on another date. Arrangements are by Boxwell Brothers Funeral Directors.