Russell Gene Tims

Russell Gene Tims was born on April 26, 1948, in San Diego, California. He grew up in a loving and lively family, surrounded by extended relatives. From an early age, he developed a passion for fishing, an interest that remained with him throughout his life. An avid outdoorsman, he found joy in camping, backpacking, wilderness survival, and hunting. He was also a dedicated firearms enthusiast.

Russ had a deep love for literature, particularly science fiction, and was a true movie buff who enjoyed the magic of cinema. His faith was a cornerstone of his life, and he faithfully served a mission for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in the New York, New York City Mission from 1976 to 1978.

He pursued higher education at Brigham Young University (BYU), where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Engineering in 1984. Shortly after, he secured a highly sought-after position at Boeing, where he built a fulfilling and successful 21-year career. His expertise in engineering also led him to work as a contracted engineer for various aircraft development companies in Texas and Washington State.

In 1976, Russ met Lynette Sonoe Lumbley at a Church Institute of Religion class in Ridgecrest, California, just before embarking on his missionary service. Their friendship blossomed through letters exchanged during his mission, deepening into a lifelong love. On May 29, 1981, they were sealed for time and all eternity in the Mesa Arizona Temple. Together, they raised six children—four sons and two daughters—instilling in them strong moral character and a deep sense of personal responsibility.

Russ entered into his eternal rest on February 1, 2025, in Snowflake, Arizona, with his beloved wife holding his hand. He is survived by his devoted wife, Lynette Tims; his brother, Mitchell; his sister, Linda (Mike Lechner); and his children: Nathan (Kristine), Nicholas (Rachel), Brandon (Darby), Jared (Valentina), Taralyn (Laitham Hunt), and Adrienne (Brian Wheeler). He also leaves behind nine beloved grandchildren: Brax, Aeshling, Blake, David, Isaac, Lily, Ayalyn, Jasper, and Ximilyn. He was preceded in death by his parents, Robert and Eileen, as well as his brothers, Robert and Terry.

A Celebration of Life will be held in his honor on Saturday, March 29, 2025, at 2:00 PM at the Pioneer Ward Building of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Snowflake, Arizona.
Russ’s legacy of faith, adventure, and love will continue to live on in the hearts of those who knew and cherished him.

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