Russell L. New

Russell “Russ” L. New of Cuba, MO was born on Wednesday, January 31, 1945, in Pontiac, MI to Ralph Reginald New and Esther Hendley New. He passed away in Cuba, MO on Saturday, July 31, 2021, at the age of 76 years and 6 months.

He grew up in Stockton, MO and began working for the local newspaper when he was 14 years old. He graduated from Stockton High School in 1963. Russ married the love of his life, Robin G. Rhoads, in Jefferson City, MO on September 2, 1965.  They were one month shy of celebrating their 56th wedding anniversary at the time of his passing.

He attended the University of Missouri in Columbia, MO. With his experience and knowledge of the printing business and working on typesetting machines at an early age, he taught linotype classes at Mizzou for many years.  He and Robin moved to Cuba, MO in late 1971.  He went to work for the Cuba Free Press and retired from there after 37 ½ years, working a total of 46 years in the publishing industry. During the time he spent at the Cuba Free Press, he had the privilege of working with both his mother and his son for a while. In addition, other companies that used the linotype machines for printing called upon Russ for troubleshooting and maintenance of their equipment. For several years after retirement, he rehabbed and flipped houses in the area with the late Frank Cunningham.  He also was a door greeter at Hutson Funeral Home for many years, always willing to lend a helping hand.

Russ accepted the Lord as his personal savior early in life.  He and Robin were members for many years at First Baptist Church in Cuba, MO.  He was a deacon at the church for 48 years, and chairman of the deacon board off and on for many of those years.  He was a leader of Royal Ambassadors and active on many committees. He exemplified the teachings of Christ by always being willing to help others in their time of need. Through the years,
Russ and Robin also donated their time building churches in various communities for Missourians on Mission.

Russ was a long-time Mizzou fan and attended many football and basketball games. He also loved wood carving and made many birds and wall hangings for his friends and family.  He was well-known as a practical jokester and many “Russ stories” have floated around of his escapades. He enjoyed hunting deer and trout fishing. Earlier in life, he enjoyed working out at the local gym. More recently, he walked every day with his wife or with one of his friends.  He was also a loving grandfather and great-grandfather, and adored spending time with his family.

Russ was a unique individual. He never met a stranger, always had a kind word, and was willing to donate his time. He will be greatly missed by his friends and family.

He was preceded in death by his parents Ralph and Esther New; stepfather Rev. Donald Reed; parents-in-law James T. (Betty) Rhoads Sr. and Leitha Kipp Rhoads; and infant brother.

Russ is survived by his loving wife Robin G. New of Cuba, MO; son Ralph (Cheryl) New of Garden City, MO; brother Steve (Linda) New of Springfield, MO; sister Sharon A. Caldwell of Enon, OH; brothers-in-law James T. (Sharon) Rhoads of Inverness, FL and Guy (Pam) Rhoads of Columbia, MO; grandchildren Cody (McKyna) New of Raymore, MO, Ryan (fiancée Jordyn Koehler) New and Courtney New all of Garden City, MO; great grandson Colton New of Raymore, MO; nieces, nephews, cousins, and many friends.

Visitation was from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM on Wednesday, August 4, 2021, at Hutson Funeral Home, Cuba, MO. Funeral Service was at 10:00 AM on Thursday, August 5, 2021, at Hutson Funeral Home, Cuba, MO with Rev. Jim Moore officiating.  Burial was at Kinder Cemetery, Cuba, MO.

Memorials were suggested to The Gideons International.

All arrangements under the direction of Hutson Funeral Home, Cuba, MO.

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