In Remembrance Of
Russell and Shirley Denham
Russell and Shirley Denham, passed away, Friday, February 19, 2016.
Russell was born on February 8, 1934 in Gentry County, MO to Carlos Theodore and Elva Bernis. (Wilson) Denham. He grew up in Gentry County where he attended school, and served his country in the U.S. Air Force.
Shirley was born on April 15, 1934 to Albert George and Ena Winifred (Kingham) Grimsey in the United Kingdom. She grew up and attended school west of London, in the small town of Maidenhead.
Russell and Shirley met in England while Russell was serving as a General’s Aide in the Air Force. On February 23, 1957 they were united in marriage. Russell and Shirley traveled around the United States and to several countries overseas during their 20 year military service. Russell served during the Korean War and the Vietnam War. In 1971, after his retirement, they moved to Edgerton, MO where they made their home. Shirley worked at the bank in Edgerton for over 20 years.
Russell and Shirley were active members of the Mt. Zion Baptist Church. He was a coordinator of the church’s missionary building projects. Shirley truly enjoyed raising her two sons, and her favorite pastime was reading. They enjoyed traveling and meeting new people.
Their granddaughter, Heather, and great-grandson, Mason, passed away.
They are survived by their sons, Ray Denham and wife Daniela, Geneva, Switzerland and Gary Denham, Smithville, MO; grandson, Grayden Denham; two great-grandchildren, Bentley and Aleia; Russell’s brother, Herbert Denham and wife Dee; ten nieces and nephews, other relatives and many friends.
Funeral Service: 11:00 a.m. Saturday, March 5th at Mt. Zion Baptist Church in the Community Life Center in Edgerton, MO.
Visitation: 6:30-9:00 p.m. Friday March 4th at the church.
Inurnment: Ridgely Cemetery.
Donations may be made to Master’s Builders. Please make checks payable to Mt. Zion Baptist Church.
Arrangements, Hixson-Klein Funeral Home, Edgerton.
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5 comments
Tom & Doreen Steward
I was so saddened to read of the deaths of Russ and Shirley. I was their pastor while studying at Midwestern Seminary. They were delightful people who entertained us in their home on many occasions. We had so much in common, we were both retired Air Force and we both married British wives. May God bless all you family members.
Cathy Kerr Oasheim
To the family – Gary & Ray – I am so sorry for your loss. I loved your mom and dad and actually saw them more that I saw you all after we all went our separate ways after school. Russ always told me his Navy stories, teased and harrassed me, just like he did when I was little. It never stopped. I loved chatting and joking around with him. Your mom always inspired me by her dry sense of Brittish humor, and how she was committed to your Dad. They were two peas in a pod and it was fun to watch them grow old together.They are going to be sorely missed and my heart is broken for you. Life is not the same without them.Blessings to you as you navigate through this moving forward. Love, Cathy
Audra Chapmon (Volunteer)
I would like to express my heartfelt sympathy to the family for the loss of your dear Russell and Shirley. I hope that you will find comfort in the words of Jesus at John 5:28,29 when he promised that the day is coming when he is going to resurrect those in the grave. Until then, it is just like they are sleeping. (John 11:11-13) May your family draw strength from Jehovah, the God of all Comfort.
Riley Cook & Mary Acker
Our thoughts and prayersare with you at thisdiffcult time.
Bob
I am grateful for the life of Mr. Denham. Thanks to his service and to the service of others in our armed forces, my family and I have been able to lead our lives in freedom and peace.rward.rward3@gmail.com