Tad Nolan Russell was born in Tuscumbia, Missouri, to Leonard Russell and Tina Russell of Iberia, Missouri, on November 28, 1984.

Tad was a dedicated firefighter for the Brumley Fire Protection District in Brumley, Missouri, from the age of 16. He was one of the highest response volunteer firefighters in the State of Missouri. Tad loved serving his community. During his 17 years of service, Tad had multiple accomplishments. He earned many certifications, including emergency vehicle operator/engineer, extrication operations, and TIMS, and he received his most recent Lifesaving Award in 2020.

Tad was an avid outdoorsman who enjoyed hunting, fishing, barbecuing, and spending time with his family and friends. Tad left behind four children, Layne Nolan (Russell) Fisher, Nevaeh Lynn Russell, Robert David Leonard Russell, and Ivan Gene Russell; mother, Tina Russell, and stepfather, Joey Carrington; fiancée, Tiffany Maes; stepdaughter, Audrey Bradbury; paternal grandfather, Ralph Forbis; brother, Gail Russell (Theresa); and many friends. Tad took great pride in taking care of his family, whether through support, encouragement, or even a little tough love.

He was preceded in death by his father, Leonard Russell; daughter, Charlotte Creed Russell; sister, Geraldine Russell; and grandmother, Margie Forbis.

Tad departed this earth doing the exact thing he loved doing and was devoted to doing for so many years, serving his community.