Russell G. Talley, previously of Oak Harbor, Wash., passed away March 27, 2014, in Sun City, Ariz.

Russell was born in Tahlequah, Okla., April 19, 1937, to Ross Talley and Elizabeth Ross. Russ was a proud member of the Cherokee Tribe and a direct descendent of John Ross, Principal Chief of the Cherokee Nation. He is survived by his brother, Reuben (Phyllis) Talley, of Amarillo, Texas, and sisters, Ellen (Jack) Roberson and Betty (Gene) Gillard, both of Henderson, Nev. Also many nieces, nephews and cousins, whom he loved very much.

He was predeceased by sisters Faye Catron (Blythe, Calif.) and Mary Francis Johnson (Tahlequah, Okla.).

Russell met his first wife, Barbara (Sisson) Williston in Clovis, N.M., after a short enlistment in the Navy. Russ is survived by his daughters, Linda (Troy Wilder) Zimmerman Wilder, of Bonney Lake, Wash., and Dr. Debra Talley, of Rushville, Ill.; grandchildren, Christopher (Samantha) Zimmerman, Carrie (Jared) Zimmerman, Adam (Sarah) Wilder and Ben (Marie) Wilder; great-grandchildren, Timothy and Dustyn (Carrie), Allayna (Chris) and Gene and Aubrey (Ben).

Russ re-enlisted in the Navy after the birth of his first daughter. Ultimately achieving the rank of Command master chief, his Naval career lasted close to 30 years. It took him to many places around the world and several duty stations in the states, one of which was Whidbey Island. During this time, Russ was divorced and eventually met and married Marvene Sullivan of Coupeville, who predeceased him in March 2007.

Russ and Marvene were active members of the Elks, where they had many friends. He is also survived by stepsons Edward Sullivan and David Sullivan, of Coupeville, and their children Sarah and Michelle Sullivan (Ed) and David Sullivan Jr.

In 2008, Russ met his companion Joy Barrett. Russ and Joy enjoyed cruising around the world and traveling extensively.

They relocated from Washington to Arizona in 2012, where he really enjoyed the sunshine and many activities such as square dancing, lapidary, metal smiting, tennis and playing bridge.

He also loved to fish, especially with friends and family.

Russ loved and cared deeply for his family and friends and was truly loved in return. He will be greatly missed.

Please join us for a memorial and luncheon celebrating Russ’ life 1 p.m. Saturday, April 26, at the Oak Harbor Elks. The family will then lay Russell to rest at Sunnyside Cemetery in Coupeville, Wash.