Russell E. Money

Russell Eugene Money, 93, of Lee’s Summit, Missouri, passed away Sunday, October 4, 2026. There will be a memorial service held at a later date.

Russell was born December 12, 1932, in Danville, Indiana, to Porter and Letha Money. He graduated from Danville High School as salutatorian and went on to pursue a life of faith, learning, and service. He earned his A.B. in Ministries from Phillips University in 1954, completed his B.D. at Phillips Graduate Seminary in 1958, and later earned his Doctor of Ministry degree in 1982. Russell devoted his life to Christian ministry, serving congregations in Wichita, Eureka, Winfield, and Overland Park, Kansas; Amarillo, Texas; and Lawton, Oklahoma. He retired from Oak Grove Christian Church in Kansas City, Kansas, in 1998. Throughout his years of ministry, Russell was committed to serving others and sharing his faith with the communities and congregations entrusted to his care.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Porter and Letha Money; his wife, Norma Rhea Money; his son, Daniel Money; and his sisters, Florence and Marjorie.

Russell is survived by his daughter, Cala (Kenny) Istas; sons, Andrew (Becky) Money and Jonathon (Phyllis) Money; grandchildren, Joseph Istas, Nicholas Istas, Benjamin Money, Nathan Money, Emma Costello, Jack Costello, Kaitlyn Money, and Elisa Money; great-grandson, Leland Money; and sister, Carolyn Apple.

Russell was a lifelong blood donor and gave a number of gallons throughout his life. After retiring Russell and Norma volunteered at Truman Medical Center. Together they traveled to Europe, England, Scotland, Hawaii, Alaska, Jamaica, Canada and many other places. He enjoyed photography and nature. He was known to spend many hours counseling someone in crisis if needed and rarely passed a broken down car on the roadside without offering to help.

Russell leaves behind a legacy of faith, ministry, devotion to family, and service to others. He will be remembered and deeply missed by his family, friends, and the many people whose lives he touched throughout his years of ministry.

Obituary submitted by the family.

Arrangements by Royer Funeral Home in Grain Valley, Missouri