Russell Thetford

Russell Thetford, age 88 of Bella Vista, passed away Jan. 4, 2013. Russell was born July 16, 1924, in Clarendon, Ark., to parents Harrison and Elsie. As a young man, Russell earned a commission in the United States Navy and went on to serve in World War II and Korea as a pilot. In later years, Russell worked for the FAA and upon retiring, moved to Bella Vista. He enjoyed golfing and was a member of the Bella Vista Men's Golf Association. Russell was preceded in death by his wife, Georgia Fay Thetford; daughter, Lynda Carol Thetford and his parents. He is survived by two sons, Bryan Thetford and wife Julie Ann of Bark River, Mich., and Chris DeMarco and wife Charlotte of Kennesaw, Ga.; daughter, Debby Thetford Nye of Bentonville; daughter by choice, Catherine Lyon and a host of other relatives and friends. Graveside services were 3 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 5, 2013, at Benton County Memorial Park. The Rev. Roger Joslin officiated. Arrangements are with Benton County Memorial Park Funeral Home of Rogers.