Rev. Wade Russell died Feb. 17

February 17, 2018

Rev. Kevin Wade Russell, a Catholic priest for 8 years, died on Feb. 17, 2018, in Blanco at the age of 54. He was born on April 23, 1963 in Channelview to Thomas Ivan and Cecilia JoAnn Russell.

Father Russell earned a master of Divinity degree in 2010 from the University of St. Thomas in Houston. He attended St. Mary Seminary in Houston and was ordained for the Diocese of Austin on May 29, 2010 in Austin. His first priestly assignment was as parochial vicar at St. Thomas Aquinas Parish in College Station. He also served as parochial vicar at St. Thomas More Parish and St. Theresa Parish, both in Austin, as well as St. John the Evangelist in San Marcos. Father Russell then served as pastor at St. Ferdinand Parish in Blanco and Good Shepherd Mission in Johnson City.

Father Russell is survived by his parents, his brother Blaine (Lori Russell), sister Jenifer, niece Lindsey Holly (Joshua), great niece and nephew Jade and Case, and niece Lana Russell. He was preceded in death by nephew Casey Russell.

Visitation will be on Friday, Feb. 23 from 5:30 to 7 p.m., followed by the rosary at 7 p.m. at St. Mary Parish, 14711 RR 12, Wimberley, 78676. The Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Saturday, Feb. 24, at 10 a.m. at St. Ferdinand Parish, 25 Main Street, Blanco, 78606. Interment will be immediately following at St. Mary Cemetery in Wimberley (adjacent to the church). A meal will be served at St. Ferdinand Parish following the interment. In lieu of flowers, donations to St. Ferdinand Parish for the RICH Youth Ministry have been requested.