Russell Woolen

Russell “Russ” Junior Woolen, 72, of Mattoon passed away at 11:34 a.m. on Saturday, August 6, 2011 at the Odd-Fellow-Rebekah Home in Mattoon, IL.
Russ was born on September 5, 1938. He was a son of Russel James Woolen and Bertha (Fuqua) Woolen.

He is survived by three children, daughters Lee Ann Foster and husband Andy of Lerna, Tammy Glenn and husband Doug of Litchfield, and son Darrin Woolen of Martinsville; six grandchildren, Whitney (Wheeler) Lebon and husband Andy of Arthur, Jordan (Galloway) Maxwell and husband Trenton of Martinsville, Wade Woolen, Biljana “Be” Stephens, Sarah Foster, and Madisyn Woolen; two great-grandchildren, Kamden and Drew Lebon; brothers, Harry Woolen of Sullivan, Jasper Woolen of Decatur; sisters, Hyllis (Woolen) Thomas of Decatur, and Betty (Woolen) Reed of Charleston; many nieces and nephews, including a special niece Jeanette Butler of Charleston.

In addition to his parents, Russell was preceded in death by a brother, James Woolen and a sister, Barbara Woolen.

Russ devoted his life to his music. During his lifetime, he owned and operated several recording studios and music stores, his own publishing company, and produced various recording artists. He was a band leader, entertainer, and a talented musician. In his younger years, he performed and played with many well known artists and released several records. His love for the art inspired others to pursue their musical aspirations, including his children and grandchildren. He was known to assist new bands and artists get started in the music business.

Russ was a very devout Christian and involved in ministry during his later years. An ordained minister, he was retired from Illini Christian Ministries and had attended Lincoln Christian College. He also completed a bachelor degree in Health Care Administration from Concordia University.

A memorial service will be held at 2:00 P.M. on Saturday, August 20, 2011 at The Edwards Funeral Home in Arcola. Rev. Rick Champ will officiate.

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