Russell Wayne Phipps, 71, of Scioto Furnace, passed away on June 13, 2025, at Southern Ohio Medical Center in Portsmouth, OH. Born on August 19, 1953, in Portsmouth, he was one of eight children born to Wayne Wendell Phipps and Erma Lee (Workman) Larimer. The Phipps brood grew up in Scioto Furnace (also known as Souty Furnace) where Russ was a staple throughout his entire life.
After graduating from South Webster High School in 1971, Russ spent many years as a Union electrician with IBEW Local 495 before retiring early due to health issues; he also served as a security guard for SOCF. He loved spending time fishing, hunting and his beagles, as a devoted dog lover, with his dog Boo being his best friend. Russ was always good for a story and a laugh, never knew a stranger. His selfless, empathetic heart proved that he would always be first to offer help to those in need.
Russ was the most proud, loving, and supportive father to his daughter, Caylah Rae, with whom he shared such a special bond. He also had great joy in life spending precious time with his grandson, Kason.
He is survived by his Daughter Caylah (Jeff) Preston of S. Lebanon, OH; Mother Erma (Tom) Larimer of North Port, FL; brothers Shawn (Lisa) Phipps of Lugoff, SC, and Brian Phipps of Pompano Beach, FL; sisters Rhonda (Mike) Rose, Sharon (Webster) Cox of Zanesville, OH; and grandson Kason.
Russell was preceded in death by his a sister, Tammy Phipps, father Wayne Phipps, brothers, Scott Phipps and Shane Phipps.
Memorial Services will be held at 1:00 PM, Saturday, June 21, 2025, at D.W. Swick Funeral Home in South Webster with Pastor Ronnie Rawlins officiating followed by interment at South Webster Cemetery. A gathering of family and friends from 12-1:00 PM prior to services.
Donations can be made in name of “Boo” to honor Russell at: Scioto Area Humane Society, PO Box 118, South Webster, OH, 45682
Online condolences may be shared at DWSwickFuneralHome.com
