Russell “Rusty” Max Hester

July 11, 1951 – Jan. 24, 2022

Russell “Rusty” Max Hester, 70, passed into his heavenly home, Monday, Jan. 24, 2022 in the afternoon at Franciscan Health Lafayette.

He was born in Crawfordsville on July 11, 1951 to Albert H. & Virginia “Irene” (Crow) Hester.

He was a 1969 graduate of New Market High School. He was involved with basketball, track, cross country and band. He was also active in 4-H showing Angus cattle.

He drove school bus No. 6 for 34 years as a contract driver for South Montgomery School Corporation. He was a life-long farmer, being a good steward of God’s land. He was one of the first in the area to go no-till in his farming practices. He first started farming with his father and brother. Most recently farming with his sons, third generation. He enjoyed croquet, ping pong and playing euchre.

He was a member of Whitesville Christian Church where he was involved in the music ministry. Previously he was a member of the Parkersburg Christian Church where he was involved with the music of the church. He was also a deacon and church treasurer for over 30 years.

He was a loving and caring husband to Sallie Lou (Simpson) Hester. They were married June 28, 1975 at Browns Valley Christian Church. They enjoyed singing duets together. She survives.

Survivors include his two sons that he was very proud of, Brian (Meagan) and Todd (Morgan); his precious grandchildren, Hailey, Hannah and Tad; his brother, Albert “Dale” Hester; his sisters-in-law and brothers-in-law, Peggy (Brad) Grayson, Patti (James) McCollum, Polly (Larry) Rhoads and Brad (Ellen) Simpson; and many nieces, nephews, cousins and dear friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents; a sister-in-law, Nelda Hester; and his in-laws, Austin and Lucy Simpson

Visitation is scheduled at Whitesville Christian Church, 3603 S Ladoga Road, Crawfordsville on Friday, Jan. 28, 2022 from 3 p.m. – 7 p.m. The funeral service is scheduled at the church on Saturday, Jan. 29, 2022 at 10:30 a.m., with Pastor’s Mike Whitacre, David Bower and Andy Schindler officiating. The service will be live-steamed and recorded which can be viewed on his obituary page at www.sandersfuneralcare.com. Burial will follow at Russellville Cemetery. Memorial donations may be sent to Whitesville Christian Church, Building Fund, 3603 S Ladoga Road, Crawfordsville, IN 47933. Share memories and condolences online at www.sandersfuneralcare.com.