Russell Jack Twitty passed away on February 18, 2009 at the age of 66. Even though part of this obituary is in present tense, it was penned by Mr. Twitty before his death. In his own words: After a multi year battle with a rare and painful disease I finally gave up but have no complaints because I have had a great life and am proud of the things I have accomplished. I was preceded in death by my father and mother, Boyd and Mary Twitty of Springfield and survived by the most wonderful family and friends anyone could ever have. First of all, my lovely wife Trudy. It is quite unbelievable what she has done for me, not only since I have been sick but since we met in 1990. She is a very, very special lady. The others are special also son, Jeff and wife Wendy Twitty; daughters Julie Powell and Marcia Preston and husband Joe; step-daughter Ashley Birtciel and husband Tyler, all of Springfield; stepson, Geoff Watson, Breckinridge, Co; brother, Larry Twitty and wife Tami; grandchildren Emily Preston, Cooper Powell, Connor Powell, and Joey Preston; step grandchildren, Bailey and Cash Birtciel; mother-in-law, Rosemary McMasters all of the Springfield area; nephew Jay Twitty, West Point, NY and last but not least, my little buddy Elliott. My friends are far too numerous to mention individually but you know who you are and a sincere thank you for adding so much to my life. I would like to give special thanks and recognition to 6 great individuals who checked on me frequently, came to visit, hauled me home from the hospital on numerous occasions and much more. Thank you Jeff, Gus, Dr. Dan, Russ, David and Kenny. I am also thankful for my lifetime affiliation with First and Calvary Presbyterian Church. I have passed quite a bit earlier in life than most of my deceased family, so remember that I will be watching over you and waiting for you somewhere just beyond the moon. I love you all. Graveside services will be held at 10:00 AM Friday, February 20, 2009 in Missouri Veterans Cemetery under the direction of Gorman-Scharpf Brentwood Chapel. Memorials are suggested to Community Hospices of America, 1465-A E. Primrose, Springfield, MO 65804.
