William Russell "Russ" Holcomb

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of William Russell “Russ” Holcomb, age 54, of Eads, Tennessee, who entered into eternal rest on December 3, 2025. Born in Silvis, Illinois, Russ lived a life defined by faith, service, and an abiding love for his family.

A lifelong learner, Russ graduated from Sterling Heights Christian School and continued his education at Maranatha Baptist University. His passion for knowledge and ministry ultimately led him to earn his master’s degree from Liberty University. He pursued education not for recognition, but to better serve God and those around him.

A proud patriot, Russ honorably served 14 years in the Army National Guard, including deployments to Iraq, Kuwait, and Qatar. His bravery, selflessness, and unwavering commitment to both his fellow soldiers and his country stood as a true testament to his character. As a chaplain, he made sure that his soldiers knew that his doors were always open, and he was ready to help.

On June 10, 2000, Russ married the love of his life, Elena (Leana) Soldatova. For 25 years, their marriage was grounded in devotion, faith, laughter, and steadfast partnership. He was a devoted and proud father who found his greatest joy in his children and family, loving them fiercely with every breath he had. They have always been his number one priority. He always said that God was first and then family. He made sure that his family knew how much they were loved.

Russ had a magnetic personality and a great sense of humor. He was the life of every gathering, never met a stranger, and loved to teach and preach the Word of God whenever he had the chance. He cherished traveling and golfing above all, always eager to explore new places and enjoy life’s adventures with those he loved. Traveling and making memories with family were some of his greatest joys.

He was also a faithful and active member of Hickory Withe Baptist Church, where his faith was evident not only in his words but in the way he lived each day. He counted it the greatest joy to teach people the Word of God. Russ was passionate about missions. He wanted the Word of God shared with as many people as possible.

He is lovingly survived by his wife, Elena “Leana” Holcomb; daughter, Sasha Holcomb; son, Timothy Holcomb (Emily); parents, James (Kathleen) Holcomb; in-laws, Boris and Tatiana Soldatov; and his brother, Dan (Katie) Holcomb. Russ’s legacy of faith, joy, humor, and unconditional love will continue through each of them.

Visitation for Russ will be held Thursday, December 11, 2025, from 11:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m. at Hickory Withe Baptist Church in Eads, Tennessee. Funeral services will follow at 1:00 p.m., with private interment to take place afterward.

In lieu of flowers contributions can be made to Hickory Withe Baptist Church for Honduras Missions: "Russ's Kitchen". This Project will feed anywhere from 150 to 250 hungry children every week.

Though our hearts are broken, we rejoice in the assurance that Russ has finished his race and now rests in the arms of his Savior. He will forever be loved, remembered, and deeply missed.