Brandon E. "Smokey" Russell's Obituary
Decatur – Brandon E. “Smokey” Russell, 44, of Decatur, passed away Sunday, May 3, 2026.
Brandon was born on June 18, 1981, in Decatur, IL, the son of Richard and Kara (Pittman) Whalen. Brandon worked as a pizza cook at many restaurants in Decatur. He was a member of Moundford Free Methodist Church and was a big Dallas Cowboys fan.
He is survived by his children: Dallas Krietemeyer of Decatur, Elizabeth (Justin) Krietemeyer of Decatur, Austin Russell and Louie Russell both of Mt. Vernon; grandchildren: Khylin, Corbin, and Kyler; parents, Richard and Kara Whalen of Decatur; sisters: Amanda (Tom) Durnil of Argenta, Kenaka (John) Belcher of Decatur, and Kate (Kristin) Eagler of Decatur; many nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.
Brandon was preceded in death by his grandparents, Myron and Mary Sudduth.
Visitation will be Thursday, May 14, 2026, from 10 am until the service time of 11 am, at Moundford Free Methodist Church. Burial will follow in Graceland Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Celebrate Recovery Program at Moundford Free Methodist Church.
Graceland/Fairlawn Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements. Condolences and memories may be shared at https://gracelandfairlawn.com.
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