Russell Lee Hoard

     In Loving Memory of Russell Lee Hoard
     November 6, 1933 – January 31, 2026
     Russell Lee Hoard, a man of steadfast faith, dedicated service, and enduring love, passed away on January 31, 2026, at Rosewood Adult Foster Care. Born at home on November 6, 1933, to Claude and Louisa (Zimmerman/Moore) Hoard, Russell’s life was a testament to his commitment to his family and his community.
     A proud veteran, Russell served as a Corporal in the U.S. Army for two years. During his service, he spent eighteen months stationed in Germany with Company C, 709th Tank Battalion of the Third Armored Division. Following his military service, Russell returned home and began a 40-year career at Alma Products, where he worked until his retirement on December 31, 1995.
     Russell was a lifelong member and cornerstone of the Edgewood Church of God. His devotion to the church was visible in many forms: he served on the Board of Trustees, spent fifteen years as the church janitor, and was a dedicated member of the choir, often sharing his gift of song during special services.
     On October 13, 1956, Russell married Carol Eunice Lytle. Together, they shared 67 years of marriage and a life built on mutual devotion. He was a loving father to his three children:
  Douglas (Ellen) Hoard,
  Dale (Sarah) Hoard,
  Lisa M. Earl,
     Russell’s legacy lives on through his six grandchildren: Elizabeth (Patrick) Schneider, Kevin (Hannah) Hoard, Abigail (Marty) Santek, Anna (Joel) Perry, Christopher Earl (Lindsay) , and Joshua Earl. He was also the proud great-grandfather to six great granddaughters. He is further survived by his brother-in-law Nyle Lytle and sister-in-law Helen Hoard. He was preceded in death by his parents, Claude and Louisa Hoard; his parents-in-law, Warren and C. Marie Lytle; his brothers Marvin, Cardwell, Duane (Betty), and Fred (Helen); and his sister Merna (Richard) Thompson.
     A Memorial Service will be held at Edgewood Church of God, Ithaca, MI, on Saturday, June 6, 2026, 11:00 A.M. Visitation will be held on Saturday, from 10:00 A.M. until the time of the service at the church. A light luncheon will follow.
     In honor of Russell’s life-long dedication to his faith, memorial contributions may be made to the Edgewood Church of God. Online condolences may be made at www.smithfamilyfuneralhomes.com. The family is being served by Smith Family Funeral Homes, Ithaca, Michigan.