Kay Frances Russell

Kay Russell, 81, passed away September 9, 2022, at the Fowler Nursing Home. Kay was born on May 14, 1941, in Missouri. She came to La Junta in the 1970’s to teach at Otero Junior College, where she taught for 20 years. She married Bill Russell, the love of her life, in 1974. They were married for 44 years until his passing in 2018.

In addition to teaching, Kay helped Bill, who was an entrepreneur, in numerous business ventures. They owned rental property and 2 barber shops in Kansas. They owned and operated many local businesses including the Peppermint Twist, Valley Floral, Clothes Pin Laundry, Lindsey car wash/soft water and Auto Recyclers. She enjoyed family gatherings, traveling, cooking for her family and sewing. Kay was a member of the First Assembly of God Church in La Junta and was also a member of Delta Kappa Gamma.

She is survived by many family members in Missouri including her older sister Wilma, many nieces, nephews, great nieces, and great nephews. Stepchildren, Dana (Ray) Velez of La Junta and Monte (Crystal) Russell of Edmond, Oklahoma; grandchildren, Jennifer (Jard) Halfacre of Aurora, Amy Coates (Eric Sanchez) of La Junta, Keith (Chandi) Russell of Flagstaff, Arizona and Dallas (Brandi) Russell of Harrah, Oklahoma. Great-grandchildren, Mary Sanchez, Angelina Sanchez, Gabriella Sanchez, Kale Halfacre, Kendall Halfacre, Camdyn Williams, Jameson Russell, Brecken Russell, Portland Russell, Suttyn Russell and Theo Russell.

At Kay’s request, there will be no services as cremation has taken place. Inurnment will take place at a later date.

Online condolences may be made at www.peacockFH.com. Peacock-Larsen Funeral Home & Arkansas Valley Crematory is in charge of arrangements.