Russell E Lethbridge

Russell Edmund Lethbridge, Jr., met his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on December 12, 2024, in Lake Placid, Florida, at the age of 79. Born on July 14, 1945, he was the beloved son of the late Arlene and Jim Cooney. 

Russ shared a devoted and loving marriage of 57 years with his wife, Diane Eaton Lethbridge, whom he married on May 20, 1967. Together, they raised a close-knit family that includes their four children:Timothy (Tracy) Lethbridge; Laura (Anthony) Ritenour; Andrew (Kimberly) Lethbridge; and Matthew (Alicia) Lethbridge. He was also a proud grandfather to twelve grandchildren: Kathryn, James, Amelia, Grant, Elizabeth (Ethyn), Gabriel, Sarah, Emily, Nathan, Meghan, Sofia, and Hannah. Russ is lovingly remembered by his siblings, John Lethbridge (Judy) and Beverly Goodwin (Henry).

A man of deep faith and service, Russ was led to the Lord at a young age by his mother. He dedicated 25 years to pastoral ministry before continuing his service through two decades of work in the school system. His life was marked by compassion, wisdom, and an unwavering commitment to guiding others. Russ also participated in mission trips to Peru, Ukraine, Russia, Ivory Coast, and Brazil. Just days before his passing, when asked by his hospice nurse about the most important thing for him that day, he replied simply "to faithfully follow God."

Russ found joy in life’s simple pleasures and had a passion for lighthouses, trains, classic cars, gardening,and cruising—interests that reflected his appreciation for beauty and history. Even in retirement, Russ remained active teaching Sunday School and TeamKID in their local church.

A visitation will be held at Placid Lakes Baptist Church on December 21, 2024, from 9:00 to 11:00 a.m., followed by a memorial service at 11:00 a.m. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to support the mission work of Matt and Alicia Lethbridge through ABWE at www.abwe.org/lethbridge.

Russell Edmund Lethbridge, Jr., will be deeply missed by all who knew him. His legacy of faith, love for family, and dedication to serving Jesus will continue to inspire those whose lives he touched. May his memory bring comfort to all who mourn his passing. Above all else, Russ’ desire was for everyone to know and experience the saving love of Jesus Christ as their personal Savior.