Russell “Russ” Howard of Effingham 

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Russell “Russ” Howard lived a life shaped by music, service, and the belief that a good sense of humor is key to a good life.

Born in 1947 in Evansville, Illinois, Russ was the son of a tenant farmer and the first person in his family to attend college. He paid his own way through school by working part-time at a paint store and playing music at night, all while carrying a full course load—a point of pride throughout his life. His early love of music and strong sense of responsibility helped define the person he became. A gifted guitarist and singer, Russ played in many local bands, most notably The Velvet Hammer. He toured with BJ Thomas and opened for Jimi Hendrix in 1968. Russ spent his entire professional career with the Social Security Administration. He began as a claims representative and steadily worked his way through the organization, retiring as a district manager. He was proud of the path he built for himself and the work he did to serve others. He also served as president of the Chicago Social Security Management Association, reflecting the respect he earned among colleagues. In 1979, Russ’s work brought him to Effingham, Illinois, where he built a life rooted in service and community. He was deeply involved in his church and volunteered for many years with organizations such as FISH and Meals on Wheels. A longtime member of the Rotary Club, he also served as its president. Russ valued consistency, generosity, and showing up for others. Music remained central throughout his life. In Effingham, he continued to perform with local bands including Crossroads Express, Heartline, State of the Heart, IVGiven, Backflash and Straight Lace. He was happiest with a guitar in his hands and often opened his sets with his trademark greeting: “Good evening, ladies and germs!” Russ loved a good joke and a good song, and believed both were meant to be shared. While he enjoyed playing for crowds, he took just as much—if not more—joy in playing for family and friends, whether on a stage or in a living room. Outside of music, Russ enjoyed buying, restoring, and driving classic cars. He collected items from his childhood, including vintage model cars and toys, displaying them in what his grandchildren affectionately called “The Museum of Very Old Things.” He especially cherished time spent with his grandchildren—playing games, attending their events, and visiting them in Chicago, Indiana, New York, and New Jersey. Russ will be remembered for his music, his humor, and the way he brought people together.

Russ is survived by his wife, Julie; his daughters Amy Driscoll (John Driscoll), Melinda Howard Belcher (Jeremy Belcher), and Melissa Robertson (Derek Robertson); his stepsons Troy Starwalt (Jenny Rose Starwalt) and Travis Starwalt; and his nine grandchildren—Jack, Sam, and Quinn Driscoll; Callen and Elliott Robertson; Davey and Brady Belcher; Montgomery and (finally, a girl!) Stella Starwalt.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Horace and Annizene Howard.

Visitation and funeral services will be held Friday, December 19, 2025, at Christ’s Church in Effingham. Visitation will be from 10:00 a.m. until 12:00 p.m., with funeral services beginning at noon. Burial will follow in Oak Ridge Cemetery in Effingham. In lieu of flowers and gifts, memorials may be made to Meals on Wheels or FISH. Online condolences may be shared at www.johnsonandsonsfh.com.