Russell Vernon Withers was born to Vernon Clark Withers and Margaret Agnes Ricks Withers, July 14, 1933, in Hibbard, Idaho. He joined Lois, Margaret and Blair. Another brother, Carl, was born later. He worked hard on the farm; and, when his father and Carl died in an automobile accident in 1947, he worked even harder.

He served as a missionary for the LDS Church in the East Central States; and, upon his return, he attended Ricks College. He then received his Masters Degree in Agricultural Economics from Utah State University in 1958.

He and Carol Thomson were married August 14, 1958, in the Idaho Falls temple. One month later they were in New York, where he earned his PhD in Agricultural Economics from Cornell University.

Russell taught Agricultural Economics at the University of Idaho from 1961 to 2000. He was respected and appreciated by his students and colleagues, not only for his knowledge but for his quick wit and sense of humor. Some of his students called his class "Laughs and Graphs." He was a mentor as well as a mediator. His impact on the world was immeasurable.

He loved woodworking, building sheds, play houses, stools, and other furniture; and he spent many hours working in the yard and garden. He loved his family and enjoyed spending time with them, including taking many hikes and drives on obscure roads.

Russell had a testimony of the Gospel of Jesus Christ, and enjoyed serving in many callings including a missionary, scoutmaster, on the High Council, in bishoprics, and as a Bishop. He and Carol served a Humanitarian mission in Damascus, Syria, from 2000 to 2002; and he enjoyed his service in the Idaho Falls and Rexburg temples.

He is survived by his wife, Carol, and their children, Marie, Garry (Patti), Paul (Marie), Mark (Camille), Karen (Jim) Smith, Ronald (Tina), John, and Brian (Sumer), 38 grandchildren, and 21 great grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, brothers and sisters, one son (Michael), and one great grandson.

His family appreciates the care and concern of the doctors and nurses at Teton Oncology Institute and Rexburg Home Health and Hospice. They are grateful for the many kindnesses shown by loved ones, friends, and ward members. In lieu of flowers, folks are welcome to donate to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints' Humanitarian Service, https://ldsp-pay.ldschurch.org/donations/lds-church/humanitarian-services/humanitarian-aid-fund .

Funeral services will be held 11:00 a.m. Saturday, August 18,2018 at the Rexburg North Stake Center. The family will receive friends Friday evening from 5:30 to 7:00 p.m. at Flamm Funeral Home and Saturday from 10:00 to 10:45 a.m. at the church prior to services.