Russell Brooks Milliken

Russell Brooks Milliken, 86, of Hendersonville passed away on Sunday, October 29, 2017 at the Carolina Village Medical Center following a lengthy illness. He was born and grew up in Paducah, KY, a son of the late Otha Ray and Vera Russell Milliken. He was also preceded in death by his brothers, Donald and Bailey as well as his sister, Irene.

Russell was attending Western Kentucky University before interrupting his education to proudly serve in the US Air Force. While serving in the Air Force, he completed his degree with Western Kentucky and then obtained his Master’s degree from Baylor University. After completing his military service, he received his Doctorate from the University of Kentucky. Russell was employed as a corporate attorney with The Mead Corporation for 22 years, retiring as vice president of the tax department. He spent the next 13 years as a professor at the University of Georgia School of Forestry. He and his wife retired in 1995 to Hendersonville, NC. Russell enjoyed gardening, walking and reading in his spare time.

He is survived by his loving wife of 42 years, Joann; sons, Steve (Kim) Hanson, Tom Hanson, Craig (Joan) Milliken, Kyle Milliken, Kent Milliken; grandchildren, Mathew Hanson, Laurel Hanson, Jennifer Fowler, Alex Prior, Jacob Lenz, Bradley Milliken and Kelly Milliken; great-grandchildren, McKynlee, Mason and Olivia; sisters, Doris Crutchfield and Joann Guy; close niece, Melinda Eison, and numerous other nieces and nephews.

A memorial service will be held at 2pm on Saturday, November 11, 2017 at Grace Lutheran Church with Pastors Greg Williams and Ken Langsdorf officiating.