Russell Edward Vandemark

Russell E. Vandemark, 83, of Dallas, Georgia, formerly of Jonesboro, Georgia, passed away on Sunday, August 9, 2026, at 9:28 p.m. at Wellstar Kennestone Hospital.

Born on November 30, 1942, in London, Ohio, Russell was the son of the late Russell E. Vandemark and Dorothy (Williamson) Vandemark.

Russell spent many years working in sales for Grosset & Dunlap Books and Harlequin Books. He later owned and operated his own courier service, Vandy Express, from which he retired.

When Russell was not working, he was an avid sports fan. Whether it was basketball, baseball, football, golf, or wrestling, he enjoyed it all. He was especially devoted to supporting his children and spent many years coaching and encouraging them as they grew up. In his spare time, Russell also enjoyed visiting the horse and dog tracks.

Throughout his life, Russell met countless people and had a special way of making friends wherever he went. He will be remembered for his outgoing personality, his love of sports and family, and the many friendships he formed over the years.

Russell was preceded in death by his parents, Russell E. Vandemark and Dorothy Vandemark; his brother, James R. Vandemark; his sister, Paulette S. Bennett; his wife, Linda Jones Vandemark; his son, Michael T. Vandemark; his daughter-in-law, Patricia A. “Patty” Vandemark; and his son-in-law, Wayne W. Pepper.

He is survived by his daughters, Michelle (James) Fileccia of Hampton, Georgia, and Mendy Pepper of Dallas, Georgia; grandchildren, Michael T. Vandemark of Milner, Georgia, Scott (Jessica) Ethridge of Aragon, Georgia, and Taylor J. Fileccia of Hampton, Georgia; step-grandson, Morgan (Christina) Pepper; and great-grandchildren, Peyton Ethridge, Wyatt Ethridge, Lakyn Ethridge, Brelyn Ethridge, and Maxton Vandemark.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, August 22, 2026, from 2:00 to 5:00 p.m. at the Baymont by Wyndham, 8315 Cherokee Boulevard, Douglasville, Georgia 30134.

The family would like to extend a special and heartfelt thank-you to all of Russell’s friends and family who loved, supported, and shared in his life throughout the years. Russell touched many lives and created countless memories. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.